Hayatu-Deen’s bid gathers steam as support group endorses presidential ambition
The presidential ambition of Mohammed Hayatu-Deen gained momentum within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday, following his endorsement by a key bloc of supporters at a gathering in Abuja.
The presidential ambition of Mohammed Hayatu-Deen gained momentum within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Tuesday, following his endorsement by a key bloc of supporters at a gathering in Abuja.
The ADC Vanguard Support Group announced its backing at an event attended by more than 500 party members, civil society representatives and supporters drawn from across the geopolitical zones, in what organisers described as a major show of grassroots mobilisation ahead of the party’s primaries.
The development comes as Hayatu-Deen’s campaign continues to expand its presence within the party, with supporters pointing to increased visibility and organisational activity ahead of the primary contest.
Hayatu-Deen, a former Chairman of the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) and ex-Managing Director of FSB International Bank Plc, declared his presidential ambition in April 2026.
Convener of the group, Comrade A.A. Abdulkadir, said the endorsement reflects the aspirant’s perceived capacity and record.
“Mohammed Hayatu-Deen is the candidate this party needs, and the leader Nigeria deserves. He has no baggage, no failed attempts, and no factional debts.
"He comes with a forty-year record of building institutions and creating jobs, and that is exactly what it will take to fix this country. ADC Vanguard is proud to stand with MHD,” he said.
On internal cohesion within the party, Abdulkadir said the choice of candidate would be critical as the ADC positions itself for the 2027 elections, saying, “Nigeria does not need another politician. It needs a builder.
"Hayatu-Deen has spent forty years creating jobs, turning around failing institutions, and delivering results that ordinary Nigerians could see and feel. As the country faces rising cost-of-living pressures in recent years, that track record is not just impressive, it is exactly what the moment demands. That is why ADC Vanguard is backing MHD,” he added.
The group described itself as an independent support platform within the ADC, noting that its endorsement combines both grassroots and digital mobilisation efforts.
Responding, Hayatu-Deen said the endorsement reinforces his commitment to the party and its direction.
“The ADC is not just another political party; it is the vehicle through which Nigeria can finally break from the cycle of recycled faces and broken promises that have held this country back for too long.
“I am committed to this party, to its mission, and to the Nigerians who are depending on us to get this right. Together, we will give Nigeria the new direction it deserves,” he said.
