The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has explained the choice of former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as the running mate to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar for the 2027 presidential election.
The ADC, in a statement announcing Amaechi’s selection on Monday, June 15, 2026, cited the former minister’s experience, political reach, and governance credentials.
The opposition party, in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, noted that the decision followed wide consultations with stakeholders across the country, including coalition partners, youth and women groups, and party leaders from all geopolitical zones.
A key factor in Amaechi’s selection, the party said, is his extensive public service record spanning legislative and executive leadership.
Amaechi previously served as Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, two-term Governor of Rivers State, and later as Minister of Transportation, where he led major infrastructure and rail modernisation projects.
The ADC also pointed to his strong performance in the party’s presidential primary election, where he emerged as runner-up, describing it as evidence of his broad acceptance within the party and across different regions.
Politically, the ADC said Amaechi brings significant influence in the South-South and broader southern region, making him a strategic complement to Atiku’s national reach and experience.
The combination, the party added, is intended to strengthen the ticket’s appeal across regions and demographics.
It stated: “Few political leaders in Nigeria today possess such extensive and balanced experience across both the legislative and executive arms of government. This depth of experience will be invaluable in supporting the next ADC administration from day one.
Amaechi emerges Atiku’s running mate for 2027 presidential election
“Beyond his impressive credentials, Rt. Hon. Amaechi strengthens the ticket strategically. His political influence across the South-South and wider Southern Nigeria, his reputation as a reform-minded administrator, and his proven ability to build coalitions across political, ethnic, and regional lines make him uniquely positioned to complement the candidacy of Atiku Abubakar.
“Together, Atiku Abubakar and Rotimi Amaechi embody a truly national ticket—one that bridges regions, generations, and political traditions. Their combined experience in governance, economic management, public administration, party organization, and nation-building offers Nigerians a credible and compelling alternative capable of restoring confidence in government and accelerating national development.”
With the Atiku-Amaechi ticket, the party noted that it is presenting a “tested and balanced” leadership option ahead of the 2027 general election, aimed at consolidating support across its growing coalition.
“At a time when millions of Nigerians are demanding competent leadership, economic revival, job creation, security, and national unity, the Atiku-Amaechi ticket sends a clear message: the ADC is prepared to govern, prepared to unite the nation, and prepared to deliver results,” the opposition party said.
