The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has named a former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, as its vice presidential candidate in the 2027 general elections.

Mr Amaechi will serve as running mate to Atiku Abubakar, the party’s presidential candidate.

In a statement on Monday, the party’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, said Mr Amaechi emerged as the vice-presidential nominee after extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners and stakeholders across the country.

Mr Abdullahi said the decision followed the successful conclusion of the party’s presidential primary, in which Mr Amaechi emerged as runner-up.

He said, “This recommendation follows the successful conclusion of the ADC presidential primaries, in which Rt. Hon. Amaechi emerged as the runner-up, earning widespread support from party members across the federation and demonstrating his enduring appeal as one of Nigeria’s most experienced and respected political leaders.

“The proposed partnership between His Excellency Atiku Abubakar and Rt. Hon. Rotimi Amaechi represents more than a political alliance; it is the coming together of two tested statesmen with the experience, national reach, and leadership capacity required to rescue Nigeria from its current challenges and reposition the country for a new era of prosperity, security, and inclusive development.”

According to Mr Abdullahi, Mr Amaechi brings to the table one of the most extensive public service records in contemporary Nigerian politics.

“His experience spans all major pillars of democratic governance. He served with distinction as speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, making him one of the longest-serving legislative leaders in Nigeria’s fourth republic,” he stated. 

Mr Amaechi served two terms as governor of Rivers State and later as minister of transportation under the late President Muhammadu Buhari.

“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.

“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,” Mr Abdullahi added.

He said Messrs Abubakar and Amaechi represent a truly national team that bridges regions, generations and political traditions.

 “Their combined experience in governance, economic management, public administration, party organisation, and nation-building offers Nigerians a credible and compelling alternative capable of restoring confidence in government and accelerating national development,” he added.

Mr Abdullahi stated that the Atiku-Amaechi ticket sends a clear message that the ADC is prepared to govern, unite the nation and deliver results.

“The leadership of the ADC is confident that this partnership will energise our growing coalition, inspire hope among Nigerians, and provide the leadership necessary to build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Federal Republic of Nigeria,” he added.