ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday declared that the 2027 general elections “will not be business as usual,” as the party formally commissioned its new National Secretariat Complex in Abuja, signaling an intensified push to position itself as a credible alternative to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
The unveiling ceremony at the new headquarters in the Federal Capital Territory featured an address by ADC National Chairman Senator David Mark and a briefing by National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi. Both leaders underscored the party’s determination to reshape Nigeria’s political landscape.
Mark described the new secretariat as more than an administrative edifice, calling it “a symbol of the party’s renewed commitment to discipline, integrity, accountability, and service.” He said the complex would serve as the operational nerve centre for shaping strategy, refining ideas, and grooming a new generation of leaders.
“My message today is simple: this is not business as usual. Everything we do going forward will be anchored on character, courage, competence, discipline and integrity,” Mark declared.
“From this moment forward, this complex becomes the operational centre of our political movement. Here, strategies will be shaped, ideas refined, and the next generation of leaders will emerge,” he added.
The former Senate President also called for unity, stressing that the ADC was entering a new era defined by discipline and national service. “Let this day mark the end of old divisions. Let today symbolize the rise of a stronger, more disciplined, more visionary, and more people‑oriented political party with only one agenda: to serve Nigeria,” he said.
Mallam Abdullahi, speaking with journalists after the ceremony, dismissed claims that the party’s move to the complex was connected to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who once occupied the building. He insisted the relocation was purely strategic, aimed at strengthening the ADC’s national presence.
Party officials noted that the unveiling comes at a time when Nigerians are increasingly frustrated with governance challenges, corruption, and economic hardship. ADC leaders said they intend to channel this public discontent into a movement for change.
Political analysts observed that while ADC remains a smaller party compared to APC and PDP, its declaration reflects growing pressure on opposition groups to present themselves as viable contenders in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
International observers say Nigeria’s 2027 elections are expected to be highly competitive, with smaller parties like ADC seeking to disrupt the dominance of APC and PDP. The unveiling of a new headquarters is seen as a strategic move to project seriousness, stability, and readiness for the contest ahead.
For now, ADC’s declaration that 2027 will not be “business as usual” signals its intent to challenge the political establishment and present itself as a disciplined, reform‑driven alternative in Africa’s largest democracy.
