Rotimi Amaechi
Former Minister of Transportation and former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi, has formally entered the race for Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election after obtaining the presidential nomination and expression of interest forms of the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
The nomination forms were picked up on Amaechi’s behalf at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja by a delegation led by former Edo State Governor, John Odigie-Oyegun, who currently serves as Chairman of the ADC Policy and Manifesto Committee.
Other members of the delegation included Senator Abatemi-Usman and several prominent stakeholders within the party, signalling growing support for Amaechi’s ambition ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Amaechi’s declaration comes at a time of heightened political consultations, alignments and coalition-building across the country as political parties intensify preparations for the next presidential contest. Sources within the ADC disclosed that many party stakeholders, particularly from the South-South region, have thrown their weight behind the former minister, describing him as an experienced administrator with national political reach.
The ADC presidential nomination form is reportedly valued at about N90 million, making Amaechi one of the leading figures to officially signal interest in contesting under the party’s platform. His entry into the race follows that of businessman and economist, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, who had earlier obtained the party’s presidential forms.
Amaechi is regarded as one of Nigeria’s most influential political figures, having built a long career in public service. He previously served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly before becoming governor of Rivers State for two terms. He later joined the cabinet of former President Muhammadu Buhari as Minister of Transportation, where he supervised major rail and infrastructure projects across the country.
Over the years, Amaechi has consistently spoken on national issues including power rotation, economic reforms, youth participation in governance, insecurity, infrastructure development and national unity. Political associates of the former governor say he believes his experience at both state and federal levels positions him to address Nigeria’s growing socio-economic and security challenges.
His entrance into the race is expected to reshape political calculations within the opposition space as parties continue to search for formidable candidates capable of challenging the ruling establishment in 2027. Analysts say the coming months are likely to witness more defections, alliances and strategic negotiations among key political actors ahead of the election season.
