In a significant political development, a former minister under the Muhammadu Buhari administration has thrown his hat into the ring for the nation's top job. Hon. Chukwuemeka Nwajiuba, who served as Minister of State for Education, has officially declared his ambition to run for president in the 2027 general election.
Nwajiuba's Declaration and Political Platform
Nwajiuba made his presidential ambition public on Monday, January 19, 2026. He announced that he would be seeking the nation's highest office on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The former minister, who is also a two-time member of the House of Representatives, stated that his decision stems from a desire to offer Nigeria a new direction in leadership.
In a statement released from his office, Nwajiuba positioned himself as a candidate ready to move beyond political rhetoric. He argued that the country's complex challenges require a foundation built on sound policies, effective negotiation, and robust grassroots political structures. His experience in both the legislative and executive arms of government, he noted, has equipped him with a deep understanding of governance, public finance, and institutional management.
A Campaign Built on Education, Economy, and Governance
The former education minister has outlined the core pillars that will define his campaign. His focus will be squarely on three critical areas: comprehensive education reform, economic stabilisation, and rebuilding public trust in government institutions.
Nwajiuba, a seasoned lawyer called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989, also formerly chaired the Board of Trustees of the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund). He is anchoring his presidential message on what he describes as a "competence-first" approach to leadership. His campaign statement emphasised that he enters the race with a vision driven by policy depth, institutional knowledge, and proven competence as the necessary bedrock for national development.
Implications for the 2027 Political Landscape
Nwajiuba's entry into the presidential contest under the ADC banner is poised to introduce a new dynamic into the evolving political scene ahead of 2027. His declaration signals the growing ambition of smaller political parties to present themselves as viable alternatives to the dominant political establishments.
He now joins an expanding list of aspirants aiming to shape the national conversation in the coming years. His candidacy is expected to further fuel ongoing debates about the importance of experience, competence, and inclusive governance in addressing Nigeria's future. The move sets the stage for a keenly contested election as parties begin to solidify their strategies and candidates.
