The battle for the 2027 presidency is gathering momentum as economist and businessman, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has officially obtained the African Democratic Congress, ADC, presidential expression of interest and nomination forms.
Hayatu-Deen became the first aspirant to purchase the Party’s ₦100 million presidential form, declaring that his ambition is driven by the need to tackle insecurity, revive the economy and reduce the crushing cost of living confronting Nigerians.
The ADC presidential hopeful received the forms from the Party’s National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinedu Idigo, according to a statement released by his media team on Friday.
Speaking shortly after picking up the forms, Hayatu-Deen said the 2027 election must go beyond political rhetoric and focus on rebuilding the country’s economy and restoring security across Nigeria.
“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,” he said.
“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.
“We cannot build prosperity in an atmosphere of fear and instability. Security is the foundation upon which every strong economy is built.”
Hayatu-Deen also pledged to introduce policies aimed at reducing the cost of doing business, supporting small-scale enterprises, creating employment opportunities for young Nigerians and driving inclusive 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,” he stated.
“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.”
The ADC had earlier announced that the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms for aspirants would run from May 6 to May 13.
Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has fixed January 16, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, while governorship and state House of Assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027.
The electoral body also disclosed that party primaries and the resolution of related disputes would take place between April 23 and May 30, 2026.
According to INEC, campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on August 19, 2026, while campaigns for governorship and state Assembly elections will begin on September 9, 2026.
