Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, a prominent economist and banker, has become the first aspirant to submit a presidential nomination form under the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ahead of Nigeria’s 2027 elections.
Hayatu-Deen purchased the form for N100 million at the party’s headquarters in Abuja on May 8, pledging to tackle insecurity, reduce living costs, and create jobs. He told supporters he would cut poverty by 60 percent within four years if elected.
The ADC began selling nomination forms on May 6, with the exercise scheduled to close May 13. The party’s presidential primary is set for May 25, while Nigeria’s electoral commission has fixed the presidential election for January 16, 2027.
Hayatu-Deen’s early entry into the race drew cheers from supporters, who described his move as a show of strength and momentum. His campaign promises focus on economic recovery, poverty reduction, and national security.
With more than four decades in banking and business, Hayatu-Deen has held leadership roles in economic reforms and privatization. He previously contested for president under the People’s Democratic Party in 2022 but joined the ADC in April 2026, citing insecurity, rising costs, and what he called a shrinking democratic space.
Shortly after picking up his form, Hayatu-Deen met with former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja to discuss Nigeria’s future and the upcoming elections.
His candidacy marks the official start of the ADC’s presidential race, positioning him as the first to formally declare his ambition within the party.
