Atiku Abubakar Names Former Governors and Senators to Lead 2027 Campaign
Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, announced a 2027 campaign council on 24 September 2026.

In Brief
- •Atiku Abubakar, the African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, announced a 2027 campaign council on 24 September 2026.
- •The council includes former governor Nasir El‑Rufai as deputy chairman, former senator Austin Akobundu as director‑general, and former governor Kashim Ibrahim‑Imam as chairman.
- •Other key appointments: Dele Momodu heads media, Dino Melaye leads contact and mobilisation, and John Oyegun chairs the advisory board.
- •The council will oversee 30 directors and six deputy director‑generals across operational directorates.
- •Atiku emphasised accountability and a focus on cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and purchasing power.
Why It Matters
Nigeria’s 2027 presidential election will feature a crowded field, and Atiku’s structured campaign council signals a serious bid to regain the presidency after multiple prior attempts. By appointing experienced former governors and senators, Atiku aims to leverage established political networks and policy expertise to address key national issues such as inflation and unemployment. The council’s emphasis on accountability and targeted policy proposals could influence voter perception and set a new standard for campaign organisation in Nigerian politics.
Key Details
- Council Announcement Date
- 2026-09-24
- Director-General
- Austin Akobundu
- Deputy Chairman
- Nasir El-Rufai
- Chairman
- Kashim Ibrahim‑Imam
- Head of Media
- Dele Momodu
- Contact & Mobilisation Lead
- Dino Melaye
Context & Background
Atiku Abubakar has contested Nigeria’s presidential elections multiple times since 2007, most recently in 2023 where he finished second to Bola Tinubu. The 2027 campaign marks his declared final attempt, following a long history of political engagement as vice‑president and party leader.
Original Reporting & Sources
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