In a major political development, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally declared Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, the former Minister of Transportation and ex-Governor of Rivers State, as its vice-presidential candidate for the upcoming 2027 general elections. This decision positions Amaechi as the running mate to Atiku Abubakar, setting the stage for a high-profile presidential contest.
Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, issued a statement confirming the selection. According to the statement, the party’s national leadership conducted extensive consultations with coalition allies, party stakeholders, women and youth groups, and representatives from all geopolitical zones before arriving at this choice. The statement also highlighted Amaechi’s strong performance in the ADC presidential primaries, where he finished as runner-up, earning broad support from party members nationwide.
The Atiku-Amaechi partnership is described as more than a mere political alliance; it is depicted as a merger of two seasoned statesmen whose combined experience, national influence, and leadership skills can address Nigeria’s pressing challenges. The ticket is intended to usher in an era of prosperity, security, and inclusive development.
Amaechi’s extensive public service record was underscored in the statement. He served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, marking one of the longest tenures in that role during Nigeria’s Fourth Republic. Later, as Governor of Rivers State for two terms, he drove significant advancements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and public sector reforms. At the federal level, as Minister of Transportation, he spearheaded ambitious rail and transportation modernization projects.
The ADC statement emphasized that few politicians today can match Amaechi’s balanced experience across both legislative and executive branches. This depth, it argued, would be crucial from day one of an ADC administration. Strategically, Amaechi’s influence in the South-South and broader Southern Nigeria, along with his reputation as a reform-minded administrator and coalition builder, makes him an ideal complement to Atiku Abubakar.
Together, the statement asserts, Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi represent a truly national ticket that bridges regions, generations, and political traditions. Their collective expertise in governance, economic management, public administration, and nation-building offers a credible alternative capable of restoring public trust and accelerating development. The party called on all members, partners, civil society, youth, women, and Nigerians of goodwill to join this historic mission to renew the nation and secure a better future.