Former Chairman of the Nigeria Economic Summit Group (NESG), Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has declared his intention to run for president under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in 2027, joining a heavyweight field that already includes Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi.
The move adds fresh weight to the ADC’s emerging role as a rallying platform for opposition figures ahead of 2027 and sets up what could become one of the most closely watched presidential ticket battles, with party unity now a defining test of its credibility.
In a statement he signed, Hayatu-Deen said his decision was driven by the deepening strain on Nigerians and the urgent need for experienced leadership to steady the country.
According to him, “this is not the Nigeria we deserve. It is time to change course, and that is why I am stepping forward to seek the ADC presidential ticket.”
He spoke to the daily reality many Nigerians now face, where basic survival is becoming harder by the day.
“Food prices keep going up, petrol prices keep rising, and for many Nigerians, just getting through the day has become a struggle.”
On security, he warned that the country’s priorities have drifted dangerously, leaving citizens exposed.
He said, “the country now spends more on ransoms than on properly equipping its security forces,” even as the naira continues to weaken against other African currencies.
Hayatu-Deen also took aim at what he described as a widening disconnect between those in power and the people, arguing that the response to mounting hardship has lacked urgency.
“For too long, this government has looked away while Nigerians bear the burden of bad policies and rising insecurity. We cannot continue like this,” he said.
Positioning himself as a steady alternative, he said his focus would be to stabilise the economy, restore security, and rebuild trust in public institutions, drawing on more than four decades of experience.
“Nigeria needs a calm and steady leader, someone who understands how to fix systems, create jobs, and secure lives and livelihoods. That is the leadership I offer,” he said.
He also warned that the ADC’s chances in 2027 would depend heavily on its ability to stay united as the contest intensifies.
“Our strength lies in our unity. Nigerians are looking for a credible alternative, and the ADC must rise to that moment,” he said.
Calling for collective action, he added: “Together, we can offer a real path forward, one that secures our country, grows our economy, and restores hope to our people. Join me. Let us build a Nigeria that works again, for everyone.”
His entry is expected to further intensify the contest within the ADC, as the party weighs rising public expectations against the challenge of holding its ranks together ahead of a pivotal election cycle.