Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate for 2027 has appointed ex-Tinubu ally Kashim Imam, former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, and Senator Austin Akobundu to lead his presidential campaign council.

Phrank Shaibu, spokesperson for the ADC presidential candidate, announced Mr Abubakar’s presidential campaign council members’ list in a statement on Thursday.

“Kashim Ibrahim-Imam will chair the council, with Nasir El-Rufai as deputy chairman. Senator Austin Akobundu will serve as director-general and campaign manager, responsible for turning strategy into coordinated action,” he said.

“Six deputy directors-general will lead the operational directorates, working with 30 directors assigned specific responsibilities. Dele Momodu will head media and communications, while Dino Melaye will lead contact and mobilisation,” Mr Shaibu added.

According to him, Mohammed Hayatudeen will chair the policy team, working with Professor Mohammed Sagagi and other members, including Professor Kingsley Moghalu, to develop practical answers to the problems Nigerians have put before the ADC, while John Oyegun will chair the campaign advisory board.

“This is a structure built for work. Every directorate has a duty. Every director has an assignment. Every appointee must account for results. Our measure of success will be how clearly we address the cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and declining purchasing power—and how effectively we organise to make Nigeria affordable again,” he added.