Amaechi emerges Atiku’s running mate for 2027 presidential election

The former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has emerged as the vice-presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) for the 2027 presidential election.

The ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, announced this via a statement issued on Monday, June 15, 2026.

Abdullahi said the emergence of Amaechi followed extensive consultations with party leaders, coalition partners, youth and women stakeholders, and representatives of all geopolitical zones.

Abdullahi added that the recommendation followed the successful conclusion of the ADC presidential primaries during which Amaechi emerged as the runner-up to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.

He stated that the former minister earned widespread support from party members across Nigeria, thereby demonstrating his 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,” the ADC spokesman said.

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Amaechi, a former Speaker of the Rivers State House of Assembly, served two terms as governor of Rivers State before becoming Minister of Transportation, where he oversaw major rail and transportation projects.

Abdullahi said the former governor’s experience across both the legislative and executive arms of government would strengthen a future administration.

Abdullahi also highlighted Amaechi’s political influence in the South-South region and across Southern Nigeria, describing him as a reform-oriented leader with a track record of building alliances across political and regional divides.

The ADC spokesman said the Atiku-Amaechi ticket reflects the ADC’s commitment to offering Nigerians what it called a credible alternative ahead of the 2027 elections, with a focus on economic recovery, job creation, national unity and improved security.

Abdullahi further expressed confidence that the partnership would strengthen the party’s growing coalition and galvanise support across Nigeria as it seeks to challenge for power in the 2027 general election.