Prominent economist and politician Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has formally entered Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race after obtaining the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential nomination form in Abuja.
The move makes Hayatu-Deen the first aspirant to officially secure the party’s presidential form ahead of the next general election, signalling an early push to position himself as a major contender within the ADC.
The nomination form was presented to him on Thursday night at the party’s national secretariat by the ADC National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinedu Idigo, in the presence of party members and supporters.
Speaking shortly after receiving the form, Hayatu-Deen pledged loyalty to the party’s internal processes, saying he would respect whatever method the leadership adopts in choosing its presidential candidate.
“Our leadership is strong, wise and exercises sound judgment. We follow the rules in this party to the letter,” he said.
He noted that the party could decide to adopt either direct primaries or consensus arrangements, stressing that he would fully abide by the final decision.
Hayatu-Deen also defended the importance of open political competition, insisting that democracy gives every qualified Nigerian the right to seek public office.
“The president emerged through democratic processes, and Nigerians must remain free to choose their leaders through open contests, free speech and credible elections,” he stated.
Although he acknowledged that the race would attract several high-profile contenders, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, the economist expressed confidence in his experience and leadership capacity.
“Everybody will go to the primary with their best foot forward. I’m going to put my best foot forward,” he said.
He described himself as a visionary leader with decades of experience rebuilding institutions, creating jobs and advising governments, adding that he possesses the competence needed to govern Nigeria responsibly.
Hayatu-Deen outlined an ambitious policy direction focused on economic recovery, job creation, lower living costs and stronger security measures.
“My priority is jobs, lower living costs, decisive action on insecurity and reducing poverty by at least 60 per cent within four years,” he declared.
He warned that Nigeria could no longer continue as the “poverty capital of the world,” promising reforms aimed at restoring public trust, rebuilding institutions and improving citizens’ welfare.
Party members at the event reportedly described his early declaration as a sign of strong organisation and political preparedness ahead of the 2027 elections.
