By Adesakin Adefemi
Renowned economist Mohammed Hayatu-Deen has officially entered the 2027 presidential race after picking the African Democratic Congress expression of interest and nomination forms, becoming the first aspirant to do so.
Hayatu-Deen received the N100 million forms on Friday from the ADC’s National Organising Secretary, Prince Chinedu Idigo. Supporters described the move as a sign of growing momentum behind his candidacy ahead of the general elections.
Speaking after collecting the forms, Hayatu-Deen said the 2027 election must focus on restoring economic stability, strengthening security, and improving the livelihoods of Nigerians. He argued that voters are tired of insecurity, job losses, and rising costs of basic necessities.
“Nigerians are tired of living in fear. They are tired of watching businesses struggle, jobs disappear, and the cost of basic necessities rise beyond what ordinary people can afford,” he said. “This election cannot be about politics as usual.”
The presidential hopeful stressed that security is the foundation of any strong economy and promised to implement policies that would lower business costs, support small businesses, and create large-scale employment opportunities for youths.
“I have spent decades helping businesses grow and supporting the creation of jobs. I understand what it takes to build institutions, unlock investment, and create opportunities at scale,” Hayatu-Deen stated. “Nigeria has the talent and potential to succeed, but we need disciplined leadership and serious execution.”
He pledged to prioritize inclusive economic growth and to restore confidence in the economy by ensuring stability and reducing the financial burden on ordinary citizens. According to him, disciplined leadership will be key to unlocking Nigeria’s potential.
The ADC has scheduled the sale of expression of interest and nomination forms from May 6 to May 13. Party primaries and resolution of disputes are set to hold between April 23 and May 30, 2026, according to the Independent National Electoral Commission.
INEC has fixed the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027, while governorship and state House of Assembly elections will take place on February 6, 2027. Campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly polls are slated to begin on August 19, 2026.
