Abuja, Nigeria — Economist and former Nigeria Economic Summit Group Chairman, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has expressed confidence in his presidential bid after appearing before the African Democratic Congress (ADC) screening committee, pledging an “economic rescue agenda” if given the party’s ticket.
Hayatu-Deen underwent what the party described as a rigorous, structured, and document-heavy screening exercise held in Abuja on Monday before a panel chaired by former Cross River State Governor, Senator Liyel Imoke.
The committee also included senior party figures such as Hon. C.I.D. Maduabum (Secretary), Alhaji Lawal Batagarawa, Prof. Bode Ayorinde, Hon. Nnena Elendu-Ukeje, Prof. David Salifu, and Col. Abubakar Ali Ciroma.
Speaking after the session, Hayatu-Deen said Nigeria was facing deep socio-economic challenges that require urgent and competent leadership, warning that insecurity, inflation, unemployment, and declining infrastructure demand immediate reform-driven governance.
“We cannot continue to normalise poverty, fear, and hopelessness as the national condition,” he said, stressing that his campaign would focus on restoring economic stability, security, and job creation.
The ADC presidential hopeful described the party as a credible platform capable of offering Nigerians an alternative leadership direction ahead of the 2027 elections.
He confirmed that he spent about an hour before the panel presenting documents and responding to questions as part of the party’s formal screening process.
Hayatu-Deen, who is contesting alongside other aspirants including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, said he is prepared for either consensus or direct primaries.
“As a loyal party member, I have signed the code of ethics. Whatever mode of primaries the party decides, I will abide by it,” he said.
He, however, declined to comment on whether he would step down for any candidate if directed by the party, describing such matters as internal discussions.
The economist pledged that, if elected president, his administration would prioritise security reform, economic recovery, infrastructure development, and revitalisation of education and healthcare systems.
He also promised to build a merit-driven government by appointing qualified Nigerians across regions into key positions, stressing the need for “square pegs in square holes” in governance.
Hayatu-Deen reiterated his confidence in securing the ADC ticket, saying he is fully prepared for either consensus arrangements or direct primaries.
The screening exercise forms part of ADC’s ongoing preparations for its presidential primaries ahead of the 2027 general elections.
