Former Rivers State governor Rotimi Amaechi has declared himself the strongest presidential contender within the African Democratic Congress ahead of the 2027 general election.
Speaking during an interview with Arise TV on Friday, Amaechi said his years in public service, combined with his leadership experience across different levels of government, place him ahead of other aspirants in the party.
The former minister insisted that he possesses both the experience and energy needed to lead the country, describing himself as the most qualified among those eyeing the ADC presidential ticket.
Other notable names linked with the party’s presidential ambition include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Northern Nigeria Development Company boss Mohammed Hayatu Deen.
Explaining why he believes the party should choose him over the other hopefuls, Amaechi pointed to his long political journey and the strategic positions he has occupied over the years.
According to him, he remains the most experienced among the aspirants despite being younger than some of them. He recalled serving as chairman of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, noting that even President Bola Tinubu never held such a position during his time as governor.
Amaechi also reflected on his time in the legislative arm, where he chaired the Speakers’ Forum and played a major role in setting up its Abuja office. He said he successfully led the body for two terms and later became the first chairman of the Governors’ Forum to secure a second tenure.
The former governor further recounted how his return as chairman of the Governors’ Forum generated controversy at the time, claiming that the president then was uncomfortable with his leadership style.
Amaechi revealed that he was once told he had turned the Governors’ Forum into a labour union, a remark he said he responded to by explaining that he only communicated decisions jointly taken by governors.
