Leaders of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) in Nigeria’s South-South region have openly declared their full support for the presidential ambition of Rotimi Amaechi.
The decision was reached during a high-level meeting in Benin City, Edo State, where party stakeholders gathered to discuss their plans ahead of the next general elections.
The meeting was chaired by former national chairman of the APC, John Odigie-Oyegun, who announced that the endorsement came after detailed discussions among ADC leaders from the South-South. According to him, the decision was not forced or based on political bargaining. Instead, he said it followed honest talks about leadership ability, experience, national appeal, and the need for a strong and unifying figure to guide Nigeria through its present challenges.
Party executives, elders, youth representatives, and women leaders from all six South-South states attended the meeting. Many speakers highlighted Amaechi’s long political career, describing him as firm, experienced, and capable of taking tough decisions when necessary. They said Nigeria needs a leader who can deal directly with deep-rooted problems rather than offering temporary fixes.
Speakers pointed to Amaechi’s time as governor of Rivers State, where he was credited with pushing infrastructure projects and reforms in education and governance. They also noted his later service at the federal level, where he handled national responsibilities and large-scale projects. According to the leaders, these roles have given him practical experience in both state and national leadership.
Beyond supporting one individual, the ADC leaders said the endorsement shows the party’s seriousness about offering Nigerians a credible alternative. At a time when many citizens are losing faith in traditional political structures, they said the ADC wants to present candidates with proven records and real governing experience. They also described Amaechi as someone who, though from the South-South, has political networks and recognition across the country.
The mood at the meeting was serious but hopeful. Participants spoke about the rising cost of living, unemployment, insecurity, and declining public trust in government. They agreed that solving these problems requires leadership that can inspire confidence, build strong teams, and carry out reforms that improve everyday life. Some speakers urged the party to develop clear policies on economic recovery, security reform, youth empowerment, and accountability, stressing that strong personalities must be backed by solid plans.
ADC leaders also called for unity within the party. They encouraged members in other regions to hold similar consultations and work toward building a strong national platform before the party primaries. While backing Amaechi, they emphasized that internal democratic processes should continue and that endorsements should strengthen party unity, not create division. The South-South bloc pledged to mobilize grassroots support for his candidacy and help grow the party in the region.
Amaechi was not present at the meeting, but leaders sent him goodwill messages. They expressed confidence that he would respond with humility and clearly outline his vision for the country. Some speakers described the endorsement as an invitation for further engagement with party members and the wider Nigerian public, rather than a claim of automatic victory.
The move marks an early but important step in the ADC’s preparations for the presidential race. It signals that the South-South region wants to play a strong role in shaping the party’s national direction. Whether other regions within the ADC will follow this lead remains to be seen, but the endorsement has already increased political activity within the party.
Political observers say the decision shows both regional unity and a calculated effort by the ADC to position itself as a serious contender against larger political parties. In the coming months, attention will focus on how other party zones respond, how Amaechi presents his national agenda, and whether the ADC can turn internal support into a nationwide campaign that appeals to Nigerians looking for credible leadership and real change.
