Ahead of the upcoming national convention of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Muhammed Hayatu-Deen has become the first official presidential aspirant on the platform of the opposition coalition party. He has committed to ending insecurity, resolving the food crisis, and unlocking the nation’s economic potential if elected President.
The presidential aspirant picked his nomination and expression of interest forms Thursday night at the ADC national secretariat in Abuja. This development signals deliberate intent and courage despite the legal challenges faced by the ADC in recent times and switches of allegiance by former Labour Party presidential candidate Mr. Peter Obi, Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, and some members of the National Assembly from the ADC to other political parties.
The renowned economist, Hayatu-Deen, was presented with the form by the party’s National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinedu Idigo, in what many party faithful described as an early show of strength, organisation, and growing national momentum behind his candidacy. The atmosphere at the party secretariat was charged with excitement as supporters chanted solidarity songs and reiterated calls for leadership focused on security, economic recovery, job creation, and relief from the rising cost of living.
Speaking shortly after receiving the form, Hayatu-Deen said the 2027 election must be centered on rebuilding the economic and security foundations of the country. In his first remarks as the party’s official presidential aspirant, he stated: “Nigerians are tired of living in fear. They are tired of watching businesses struggle, jobs disappear, and the cost of basic necessities rise beyond what ordinary people can afford. This election cannot be about politics as usual. It must be about how to secure our communities, rebuild confidence in the economy, create jobs at scale, and make life more affordable for millions of Nigerians.”
Hayatu-Deen said insecurity remains one of the biggest threats to Nigeria’s future, warning that no country can prosper when farmers cannot safely access their farms, businesses operate under fear, and investors lack confidence in the system. “We cannot build prosperity in an atmosphere of fear and instability. Security is the foundation upon which every strong economy is built,” he stated.
The ADC presidential aspirant also pledged to pursue policies aimed at reducing the cost of doing business, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, expanding opportunities for young people, and driving broad-based economic growth. “I have spent decades helping businesses grow and supporting the creation of jobs. I understand what it takes to build institutions, unlock investment, and create opportunities at scale. Nigeria has the talent and potential to succeed, but we need disciplined leadership and serious execution. This is why I am putting my best foot forward,” he added.
Party leaders and supporters at the event described Hayatu-Deen’s formal entry into the race as a major boost for the ADC ahead of the 2027 elections, citing his extensive private sector experience, national outlook, and growing appeal among young Nigerians and professionals seeking a credible alternative for the country.
