Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has returned to Nigeria after a brief business trip abroad, fueling fresh expectations that he may soon formally unveil his running mate ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Atiku arrived at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on Saturday night, where he was welcomed by supporters and political associates.
His return comes amid growing anticipation over the official confirmation of former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi as his vice-presidential running mate. Although leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) have indicated that Amaechi has been selected for the position, Atiku is yet to make a formal public announcement.
Photos shared on social media by Atiku’s media aide, Abdulrasheed Shehu, showed the former vice president receiving a warm welcome at the airport.
“His Excellency Atiku Abubakar joyfully returned to Nigeria after a brief overseas trip, greeted warmly by enthusiastic supporters and numerous well-wishers,” Shehu wrote.
The media aide had earlier explained that the delay in officially unveiling the vice-presidential candidate was due to Atiku’s absence from the country on a short business engagement. He dismissed speculation of disagreements within the party, insisting there was “no crisis over the vice-presidential slot” and assuring supporters that the announcement would be made once Atiku returned.
The expected unveiling of the running mate is seen as a key milestone in the ADC’s preparations for the 2027 general election. Political observers say the choice of a vice-presidential candidate is likely to shape the party’s campaign strategy, regional balance, and efforts to strengthen its appeal across the country.
With Atiku now back in Nigeria, attention has shifted to the party’s next move and whether the long-awaited announcement of his running mate will be made in the coming days.
