As Nigeria’s youth continue to turn to entrepreneurship in response to economic headwinds, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has offered a heartfelt message encouraging self-reliance, integrity, and ethical business conduct.
Addressing the 2025 graduating class of the American University of Nigeria (AUN), Atiku emphasized the importance of independent thinking and value-driven entrepreneurship. He urged the graduates to forge their own paths rather than depending on government support or shortcuts to success.
“Let your business be rooted in integrity. Stand on your own. Don’t depend on government patronage,” he advised.
Atiku’s message arrives at a crucial moment as many young Nigerians face limited access to capital, mentorship, and job opportunities. His words resonate with a generation trying to navigate an uncertain economic landscape.
He further cautioned young entrepreneurs to stay clear of unnecessary conflict or political distractions that might jeopardize their ambitions. Highlighting lessons from his own journey in both business and politics, Atiku remarked:
“Challenges will come, but never lose your values. Integrity is the strongest pillar of any lasting success.”
The former Vice President’s remarks extended beyond business, encouraging graduates to be innovative, courageous, and principled in whatever careers they pursue. His message carried added weight, grounded in personal experience and a track record of overcoming adversity.
In a country where the road to success often seems tangled with bureaucracy and political influence, Atiku’s counsel stands as a reminder that ethical entrepreneurship and resilience remain powerful tools for progress.
