Atiku Abubakar Biography: Early Life, Age, Political Career, Net Worth

Here is comprehensive Atiku Abubakar biography.

Atiku Abubakar, full name Atiku Abubakar, is one of Nigeria’s most influential and prominent political figures.

Born on November 25, 1946, in Jada, which was then part of the British Cameroons, Atiku rose from humble beginnings to become a successful businessman, politician, and philanthropist.

Throughout his career, he has been at the heart of Nigeria’s political transformation, holding the office of Vice President from 1999 to 2007 and contesting in several presidential elections.

His political journey spans decades, let’s dig dipper.

Atiku Abubakar Biography Overview

Early Life and Education of Atiku Abubakar

Atiku Abubakar was born into a Fulani family in Jada, which was then part of the British Cameroons and later became part of Nigeria.

His father, Garba Abubakar, was a Fulani trader and farmer, and his mother, Aisha Kande, was a homemaker. Atiku was the only child of his parents, as his only sister died in infancy.

Initially, Atiku’s father opposed Western education, believing it was against Islamic teachings.

However, local authorities eventually compelled his father to allow him to attend school. Atiku began his education at Jada Primary School in 1954. He later attended Adamawa Provincial Secondary School in Yola, where he graduated with a Grade Three WASC/GCE Certificate in 1965.

Subsequently, he enrolled at the Nigeria Police College in Kaduna but left to work as a tax official in the Regional Ministry of Finance.

In 1967, he gained admission to the School of Hygiene in Kano, earning a diploma in 1969. He later attended Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, obtaining a diploma in law in 1969.

Atiku Abubakar Personal Life

Atiku Abubakar’s personal life has always attracted significant attention. He has been married multiple times and is the father of 28 children.

His first wife, Titi Atiku Abubakar, was married to him in the 1970s and together they have several children. He has since married other women, each of whom has contributed to his expansive family.

Atiku’s personal life is often viewed through the lens of his role as a political figure and a businessman, with his family dynamics garnering significant media coverage.

Despite his busy career, Atiku has been an active father, providing for his children’s education and welfare.

Atiku Abubakar Political Career

Atiku’s political journey began in the 1980s when he became involved with various political movements in Nigeria.

However, his major breakthrough came in 1999, when he was elected as Vice President of Nigeria under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

During his tenure as Vice President, he was a key figure in the privatization of state-owned enterprises, a process that was both praised for its economic potential and criticized for alleged corruption.

His relationship with President Obasanjo deteriorated over time, particularly when Atiku opposed Obasanjo’s bid for a third term in office. This led to his departure from Obasanjo’s inner circle and the formation of his own political path. Atiku first ran for president in 2007, losing to Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.

He continued to make presidential bids in 2011, 2015, 2019, and 2023, seeking to lead Nigeria through reforms aimed at boosting economic growth and stability.

Despite not winning the presidency, Atiku remains a critical voice in Nigerian politics, regularly championing democratic principles and governance reforms.

Atiku Abubakar Net Worth

Atiku Abubakar’s net worth is estimated at a staggering $1.6 billion, making him one of the wealthiest Nigerian politicians.

His wealth stems from a variety of business ventures, including his involvement in the logistics industry through his company Intels Nigeria Limited, as well as investments in real estate and agriculture.

He also established the American University of Nigeria (AUN), which has become a significant contribution to the educational landscape in Nigeria.

Atiku Business Ventures

Atiku Abubakar’s business empire is vast and diverse. From his stake in oil and gas logistics to his investments in education and agriculture, Atiku has built a business portfolio that mirrors his political career’s ambition.

He is the founder of the American University of Nigeria (AUN) in Yola, which provides high-quality education to thousands of Nigerian students.

Additionally, his company Intels Nigeria Limited is a leader in the logistics and port services sector, contributing significantly to Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.

Atiku Abubakar Philanthropy

Through the Atiku Abubakar Foundation, Atiku has contributed millions to educational projects across Nigeria.

The foundation is particularly focused on providing scholarships and creating educational opportunities for Nigerian youth, especially those from underserved regions.

Atiku’s commitment to education is reflected in the establishment of the American University of Nigeria, which aims to provide an American-style education to Nigerian students, preparing them for the challenges of the global economy.

Recent Developments

In the 2023 presidential election, Atiku Abubakar was once again the candidate for the People’s Democratic Party (PDP). Despite his energetic campaign, he lost to Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Atiku challenged the results, alleging electoral malpractice, but in October 2023, the Supreme Court of Nigeria dismissed his case, affirming Tinubu’s victory. Atiku has pledged to continue advocating for Nigeria’s development and democracy.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many children does Atiku Abubakar have?

Atiku Abubakar has 28 children from his various marriages. His large family is often a subject of public interest, and his children have been involved in different aspects of public and private life, including business and education.

Why did Atiku Abubakar and President Obasanjo fall out?

The fallout between Atiku Abubakar and President Olusegun Obasanjo primarily centered around differences over political and governance strategies. A key moment was when Atiku opposed Obasanjo’s third-term agenda, which led to a breakdown in their political relationship.

This eventually resulted in Atiku distancing himself from the Obasanjo administration.

Atiku Abubakar’s life and career are a testament to resilience, determination, and a deep commitment to shaping Nigeria’s future.

Though he has yet to become president, his impact on Nigerian politics, business, and education is undeniable.

Through his extensive business ventures, political contributions, and philanthropic efforts, Atiku remains a pivotal figure in Nigeria’s ongoing development.