Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has issued a strong call to action on the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, urging Nigerian leaders and civil society to prioritize people-centred solutions in the fight against poverty.
In a public statement released on October 17, Abubakar described poverty as “the greatest enemy that humanity has ever known,” warning that its presence in society fuels a cascade of challenges including disease, ignorance, insecurity, and hopelessness.
“The declaration of this day is a timely reminder and a call to action,” he said. “It urges governments, civil society, and every stakeholder to join hands in the fight against poverty in all its forms.”
Citing recent data and global rankings, Abubakar lamented Nigeria’s status as one of the countries most severely affected by poverty. He reaffirmed his longstanding advocacy for deliberate, inclusive policies aimed at lifting citizens out of hardship.
“To restore dignity and freedom, we must take the fight against poverty to every home, every community, and every school,” he stated. “The ordinary Nigerian must be part of the solution.”
He concluded his remarks with a proverb that underscores the urgency of the issue: “When the poor man is hungry, peace sleeps outside.”
The International Day for the Eradication of Poverty, observed annually on October 17, serves as a global platform to highlight the need for sustained efforts to eliminate poverty and promote social justice.