2023: I will sell refineries to raise $10bn – Atiku

The presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Atiku Abubakar, has promised to privatise the nation’s three refineries to raise $10 billion for the empowerment of small and medium-scale businesses, SMEs, in the country.

Mr Atiku, who said this while addressing a campaign rally yesterday in Lagos, said he would follow the privatization through if elected President next year.

He said: “On my own part, if you elect me as your president, I said and I promise by the grace of God that I am going to set aside $10 billion so that we can empower our young men and women in small and medium enterprises.

“People were asking me where I am going to get the money. If I privatise the Port Harcourt refinery, Warri refinery, and Kaduna refinery, I will get the money.”

The PDP candidate also promised that his administration would restructure the country if elected President in 2023.

“So, let me also promise you, if you elect me, we are going to restructure this country. What do we mean by restructuring? We will give states and local governments more powers and resources. It is up to you to hold them responsible.”

Mr Atiku added that his government would ensure full autonomy for the state and local governments.

The , therefore, urged the PDP members to protect their votes and not to succumb to any form of intimidation.

The PDP vice presidential candidate and Delta State governor, Ifeanyi Okowa, said Mr Atiku is the only acceptable presidential candidate to Nigerians.

“Atiku is tested and he means well for the country. We want a Lagos State that works for all, not working for the rich and the poor getting poorer.

“Atiku is the only candidate of all the contestants that will return the lost glory of Nigeria,” he said.