….Atiku, Obi, CAN, PDP, ACF, MBF Set Agenda for Nigeria for 2026
As Nigeria steps into 2026, prominent political leaders, faith-based organisations and socio-cultural groups have issued strong messages urging governments at all levels to move beyond promises and deliver good governance, security, and economic relief to citizens.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Mr Peter Obi, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), the Middle Belt Forum (MBF) and the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) all used their New Year messages to outline expectations and concerns, describing the outgoing year as one of severe hardship and unmet hopes.
Hardship must awaken the nation — Atiku
In his New Year address, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described 2025 as one of the most difficult years Nigerians have faced in recent history, blaming economic hardship, rising debt, worsening insecurity and what he termed poor governance under the current administration.
Atiku said Nigerians endured unemployment, collapsing businesses, hunger and insecurity, while accusing the government of relying on propaganda rather than sound policy.
He expressed concern over what he described as weakened democratic institutions, growing intolerance of opposition voices and selective anti-corruption efforts.
According to him, the scale of hardship should not lead to despair but should inspire citizens to demand accountability through democratic means.
He urged Nigerians to reject ethnic and religious divisions, insisting that unity remains the strongest tool for national recovery.
Let 2026 mark a true rebirth — Obi
Former Anambra State Governor, Mr Peter Obi, called for 2026 to represent a genuine turning point for Nigeria, urging leaders to recommit to honesty, accountability and compassion in governance.
Obi stressed that democracy should not be reduced to elections alone but must reflect daily respect for justice, transparency and the rule of law. He challenged public office holders to embrace truthfulness in their conduct and to see leadership as service rather than an avenue for personal gain.
He also appealed for a shift in national priorities, calling for greater investment in healthcare, education and job creation, rather than wasteful spending.
According to him, a nation’s success should be measured by the dignity and quality of life enjoyed by its citizens.
Endurance is not approval — CAN
The Christian Association of Nigeria cautioned the Federal Government against mistaking the resilience of Nigerians for satisfaction with prevailing conditions.
In a message signed by CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the body said economic hardship, insecurity and rising living costs had placed enormous pressure on families and communities.
CAN stressed that economic reforms must translate into tangible improvements, including affordable food, accessible healthcare, quality education and decent jobs.
The association also expressed deep concern over persistent insecurity, calling on government to intensify efforts against terrorism, banditry and kidnapping.
It further urged authorities to develop clear plans for the resettlement of displaced communities and warned that moral decay, corruption and injustice continue to undermine national unity and trust.
MBF urges cautious optimism, strong opposition
The Middle Belt Forum advised Nigerians to approach 2026 with cautious optimism.
In a message by its National President, Dr Bitrus Pogu, the forum expressed hope that recent international support in tackling insecurity and the introduction of a new tax regime could bring positive change.
While urging cooperation with government initiatives, MBF stressed the importance of protecting democratic freedoms ahead of the 2027 elections.
Dr Pogu also raised concerns about the state of opposition politics, warning that democracy thrives best with strong and credible opposition parties.
ACF calls for governance beyond politics
The Arewa Consultative Forum said expectations for 2026 are modest but hopeful, urging leaders to focus on governance rather than political calculations.
ACF’s National Publicity Secretary, Professor Tukur Baba, called on federal, state and local governments to prioritise security, economic stability and social welfare.
He identified insecurity and corruption as major threats to national progress and urged decisive action to restore public confidence.
According to him, only sincere leadership anchored on accountability and justice can stabilise the country.
Protect lives, not promises — PDP
The Peoples Democratic Party charged the Federal Government to make the protection of lives and property its foremost priority in 2026.
In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Ini Ememobong, the party said Nigerians have endured prolonged insecurity and economic hardship with little relief.
The PDP warned that leadership should now be judged by concrete actions rather than repeated assurances.
It also called on democratic institutions, including the judiciary and electoral bodies, to uphold independence and resist undue influence.
Reaffirming its role as the main opposition, the party pledged to continue holding the government accountable while standing with Nigerians in the pursuit of a fairer and more inclusive society.