Atiku Abubakar Biography: Politics, Education, State of Origin, Children, Height, Wife, Age & Net Worth

Atiku Abubakar is one of Nigeria’s most recognizable political figures — a businessman, former customs officer, vice president (1999–2007), and perennial presidential candidate.

His life story moves from humble rural origins in Adamawa State to the pinnacle of national politics, and alongside it runs a high-profile business career and frequent controversies that have kept him in the public eye for decades.

Profile

• Full Name: Atiku Abubakar
• Born: November 25, 1946
• Age: 78 years (as of 2025)
• Birthplace: Jada, Adamawa State, Nigeria
• State of Origin: Adamawa State
• Nationality: Nigerian
• Occupation: Politician, Businessman, Philanthropist, Former Customs Officer
• Height: 5 ft 10 in (1.78 m)
• Religion: Islam
• Parents: Garba Abubakar (father), Aisha Kande (mother)
• Spouse: Married (polygamous; notable spouse includes Titi Abubakar)
• Children: Over 20 children (including Adamu, Aliyu, and others)
• Net Worth: Estimated at over $1.8 billion (unofficial sources)

Early life and education

Atiku Abubakar was born on 25 November 1946 in Jada (then British Cameroons, now Adamawa State, Nigeria). He attended Jada Primary School and later Adamawa Provincial Secondary School, Yola. In 1967 he enrolled at Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, where he completed a diploma in law before joining the Nigeria Customs Service in 1969.

Career in the Nigeria Customs Service

Atiku joined the Nigeria Customs Service in 1969 and rose through the ranks during a 20-year career, eventually becoming a senior customs officer before retiring in 1989. His time at customs provided early exposure to international trade and logistics, which later influenced his business ventures in transport, real estate, and agriculture.

Business ventures and wealth

After leaving the Customs Service, Atiku moved into entrepreneurship. He invested in transportation, real estate, agriculture, and trade — building a broad portfolio that includes haulage companies, farms and property. His business success fueled both his public profile and accusations by political opponents that he used public office to enrich himself.

Political rise: parties, alliances and vice-presidency

Atiku’s political career spans multiple parties and alliances — reflecting both Nigeria’s fluid party landscape and his adaptability. He rose to national prominence when Olusegun Obasanjo chose him as running mate; Atiku served as Vice President of Nigeria from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2007. During his two terms, he focused on economic liberalization, privatization, and pushing for reforms in education and agriculture, though his vice-presidency was also shadowed by tensions with President Obasanjo in their second term.

Multiple presidential bids

Atiku has contested Nigeria’s presidency many times (representing different parties at various points). He ran for president in several election cycles and was the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) candidate in recent cycles, including major bids in 2019 and 2023. His repeated bids have made him synonymous with the ambition to reclaim the presidency for himself and his political platform.

Recent activity and political positioning

After 2023, Atiku continued to play an active role in opposition politics. In 2025 he was involved in efforts to unite opposition forces into alliances aimed at challenging the ruling party in future elections. These coalition efforts reflect a strategy of consolidation among Nigeria’s opposition leaders.

Personal life

Atiku is polygamous and has a large family. Public profiles note multiple marriages and numerous children. He is also active in philanthropy and runs foundations that focus on education and social development in northern Nigeria. Personal life events — including marital changes — have occasionally made headlines.

Controversies and court cases

Atiku’s career has been accompanied by controversies: allegations about misuse of office, questions about contracts and privatizations during his tenures in business and politics, and legal suits (some domestic, some involving international dimensions). Many of these matters have gone through Nigerian courts and public inquiry, and opinions about them remain polarized along political lines.

Legacy and impact

Atiku’s legacy is mixed and complex. Supporters praise his entrepreneurship, advocacy for privatization and economic reforms, and his consistent voice for northern and national development. Critics view him as emblematic of elite politics and link him to controversies over corruption and patronage. Whatever one’s view, Atiku Abubakar has been a defining actor in Nigeria’s political life for more than three decades.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

When was Atiku Abubakar born?

He was born on 25 November 1946 in Jada, Adamawa State (then part of British Cameroons).

What position did Atiku hold in government?

He served as Vice President of Nigeria from 29 May 1999 to 29 May 2007 under President Olusegun Obasanjo.

How many times has Atiku run for president?

Atiku has run for Nigeria’s presidency multiple times across different election cycles and has been a major opposition candidate in recent elections, including 2019 and 2023.

What is Atiku’s background before politics?

He worked for the Nigeria Customs Service (joining in 1969) and later became a businessman investing in transport, real estate and agriculture.

Is Atiku still politically active?

Yes. Post-2023 he has continued political engagement, including efforts to work with other opposition figures and alliances aimed at future elections.

Conclusion

Atiku Abubakar’s life illustrates the interplay of business and politics in modern Nigeria. From a customs officer to the vice president, and from entrepreneur to perennial presidential challenger, Atiku remains a central — if controversial — figure in Nigerian public life. Whether you view him as a reformer, a political survivor, or a contested elite, his influence on the country’s political landscape is undeniable. For readers interested in updates about legal rulings, party affiliations, or future campaigns, consult reputable news outlets and official releases, because Atiku’s story continues to evolve.