Aliyu Bin Abbas, a former political aide to ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has been chosen as the presidential candidate of the Action Democratic Party for the 2027 general election.
Abbas, who founded the National Youth Alliance, emerged victorious at the party’s national convention held in Abuja in the early hours of Saturday.
His emergence comes at a time of increasing political activity ahead of the 2027 elections, as opposition parties and new political movements seek to attract support amid concerns over economic difficulties, insecurity, unemployment, and governance issues across the country.
In a statement released by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Okpani Dickson, the outcome of the convention was announced around 5:30 a.m., prompting celebrations among delegates and supporters.
Dickson stressed that Abbas’ presidential bid is separate from that of his former principal, Atiku, who is seeking the presidency under the platform of the African Democratic Congress.
According to him, Abbas is pursuing his ambition independently and is not aligned with any established political bloc.
He said, “For the avoidance of doubt and to clarify the distinct trajectory of this candidacy, Aliyu Bin Abbas steps into this race on his own merits and under a completely independent platform.
“While he previously served as a close political aide to Atiku Abubakar (who is also contesting the 2027 presidency under the ADC), that administrative chapter formally ended over two years ago, following a widely recognised political divergence.
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“Both leaders parted ways, with public consensus affirming that Aliyu should chart his own course to champion the cause of the younger generation. Therefore, this candidacy is entirely autonomous.
“It stands fully divorced from the influence of old political blocs, serving neither as a proxy movement nor a strategic alignment with past principals, but as a direct response to the yearning of millions of Nigerian youths seeking fresh, uncompromised leadership.”
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Following his nomination, Abbas described the development as the start of a new political movement focused on national renewal and greater youth participation in governance.
“This milestone represents more than a political victory; it signifies the emergence of a new generation of leadership committed to national renewal, inclusive governance, economic transformation, and the empowerment of Nigerian youths.
“As Nigeria stands at a defining moment in its history, this development signals the beginning of a movement driven by hope, patriotism, and a collective determination to build a nation that works for all.
“It is a call to every Nigerian—regardless of ethnicity, religion, region, or political background—to unite behind a common vision of progress, justice, prosperity, and national greatness,” he stated.
The ADP flagbearer said his campaign would centre on promoting national unity and economic growth.
According to him, the process of building a stronger, more prosperous, and more united Nigeria has now begun.
“A new movement, a new direction, a new Nigeria is set,” he assured.
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Earlier, the National Chairman of the ADP, Yabagi Yusuf Sani, said the convention represented another milestone in the party’s drive to establish itself as a viable alternative in Nigeria’s political space.
He praised members, delegates, and supporters for their dedication and resilience despite the challenges confronting opposition parties.
“Your sacrifice, patience and loyalty have kept the party alive, united and focused. The ADP has continued to present itself to Nigerians as the credible alternative.
“Our country requires a new political attitude. Nigeria needs leaders who understand that public office is a trust, not a privilege for self-enrichment.
“Nigeria needs a party that believes in service, not domination; inclusion, not exclusion; competence, not propaganda; and unity, not division. That is why the ADP remains relevant. That is why we are gathered here today,” he stated.
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Sani added that the party remains committed to creating a country where citizens can live peacefully and pursue opportunities without discrimination.
“This convention is also an opportunity to strengthen our internal structures and demonstrate that democracy must begin from within the political parties themselves.
“We cannot demand national democracy if we do not practise party democracy. We cannot ask Nigerians to trust us if we do not conduct our own affairs with transparency, fairness and order,” he said.
