Why I visited Jonathan after picking ADC presidential form – Hayatu-Deen

By Nafisetu Yakubu

Businessman and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential aspirant, Mohammed Hayatu-Deen, has explained why he visited former President Goodluck Jonathan in Abuja.

Hayatu-Deen who recently obtained the N90 million form of the ADC to contest the 2027 presidency on the platform of the ADC spoke on Friday after he visited Jonathan.

He said his visit to the former Nigeria’s President who is also been urged to some of his supporters to join the presidential race was to discuss Nigeria’s future and the 2027 elections.

Hayatu-Deen said that he came to formally inform Jonathan of his decision to contest the 2027 presidency on the platform ADC.

The economist and banker said that his public and private sector career had helped create millions of jobs, motivating his resolve to serve the country more.

He said that he also informed the former president that he had obtained the ADC presidential nomination form from the party’s national secretariat.

Hayatu-Deen commended Jonathan’s statesmanship across Africa, describing him as a strong advocate for democratic growth, electoral integrity and sustainable governance.

The closed-door meeting reunited both political gladiators who share a long-standing relationship in public service, dating back to Jonathan’s tenure as vice-president and later president.

Hayatu-Deen served on the National Council on Privatisation and chaired the Bureau of Public Enterprises during Jonathan’s tenure as vice-president.

The presidential aspirant equally served on the Presidential Advisory Committee during Jonathan’s tenure as acting president and subsequently as president, contributing to national economic and governance reforms.

Hayatu-Deen was warmly received by Jonathan, who wished him success in his political journey ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Hayatu-Deen became the first aspirant to pick up the ADC’s presidential nomination form on Thursday evening with the promise to tackle security and economic challenges confronting the country if elected.

He said the 2027 election should focus on rebuilding the country’s economic and security foundations.

“Nigerians are tired of living in fear. They are tired of watching businesses struggle, jobs disappear, and the cost of basic necessities rise beyond what ordinary people can afford.

“This election cannot be about politics as usual. It must be about how to secure our communities, rebuild confidence in the economy, create jobs at scale, and make life more affordable for millions of Nigerians,” he said.

He also promised to pursue policies aimed at reducing the cost of doing business, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises and expanding opportunities for young Nigerians.

“I have spent decades helping businesses grow and supporting the creation of jobs. I understand what it takes to build institutions, unlock investment, and create opportunities at scale. Nigeria has the talent and potential to succeed, but we need disciplined leadership and serious execution. This is why I am putting my best foot forward,” he said.