ADC: Hayatu-Deen joins presidential race, calls for party unity ahead of primaries

Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has formally declared his intention to contest for the presidential ticket of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), positioning himself as a candidate focused on addressing the country’s economic and security challenges.

Hayatu-Deen, who previously sought the presidential ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), joined the ADC on April 12 and is among those expected to vie for the party’s ticket ahead of the 2027 general elections, alongside former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former governors Rotimi Amaechi and Peter Obi, who have also been reported to be eyeing the party’s ticket.

Speaking on a national television on Wednesday, the former banker said the current situation in the country requires leadership with both empathy and experience.

He also urged party members to prioritise unity, describing it as central to the ADC’s chances in the next election cycle.

“Our strength lies in our unity. Nigerians are looking for a credible alternative, and the ADC must rise to that moment.

“Together, we can offer a real path forward, one that secures our country, grows our economy, and restores hope to our people,"

Emphasising the necessity for party cohesion ahead of the contest, he implored, “Join me. Let us build a Nigeria that works again, for everyone.”

On his chances of securing the party’s ticket, Hayatu-Deen said he would draw on over four decades of experience across the public and private sectors, including efforts in organisational turnaround, economic reform, investment attraction and education support.

He said his credentials distinguish him from other contenders, citing his national honour, the Order of the Niger (OON), conferred by former President Olusegun Obasanjo.

He also referenced his roles across administrations, including chairing the 2015 Transition Committee on the Economy for former President Muhammadu Buhari, as well as leading the turnaround of FSB International Bank, later acquired by Fidelity Bank Plc.

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On the issues driving his ambition, he pointed to rising living costs and economic pressures on households, saying, “food prices keep going up, petrol prices keep rising, and for many Nigerians, just getting through the day has become a struggle.”

He also raised concerns about insecurity and currency pressures, stating that more resources are being spent on ransoms than on equipping security forces, while the naira continues to weaken against other African currencies.

“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.”

Hayatu-Deen criticised what he described as a gap between government and citizens, saying that while families and businesses face increasing strain, the response from those in authority has been insufficient.

He said he would present what he described as a practical alternative focused on economic stability, improved security and restoring confidence in public institutions.

“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.