Former Minister of State for Education and two-time House of Representatives member, Dr. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, has officially declared his intention to contest the 2027 presidential election under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Nwajiuba, who previously sought the presidency on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform in 2022 before withdrawing over alleged manipulation of the system, joins a growing list of aspirants including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Chibuike Amaechi seeking the ADC’s presidential ticket.

In an interview with THISDAY, Nwajiuba stressed that Nigerians should evaluate aspirants based on integrity, relevant education, and work experience rather than political rhetoric. A seasoned lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989 and former Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), he described his campaign as anchored on a “competence-first” approach to leadership.

Nwajiuba emphasised that Nigeria’s challenges demand leadership guided by clear policies, effective negotiation skills, and a strong grassroots political structure. “My years in the legislature, the executive, and key national institutions have equipped me with a broad understanding of governance and public finance,” he said.

His campaign is expected to focus on education reform, economic stabilisation, and rebuilding public trust in government institutions. Political analysts note that his entry on the ADC platform introduces a new dimension to the evolving presidential contest, highlighting smaller parties’ efforts to provide Nigerians with alternative leadership options.

Nwajiuba’s declaration signals the emergence of a candidate positioning experience, policy depth, and institutional knowledge at the heart of Nigeria’s 2027 presidential race.