Atiku Eyes Tambuwal as Campaign DG as Tinubu, Obi Delay Choice
As political parties step up preparations for the 2027 presidential election, consultations over who will head their campaign organisations have entered a crucial stage, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reportedly leaning towards former Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal, as the Director-General of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s campaign.
The move comes as parties race to complete their campaign structures ahead of August 19, the date fixed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for the official commencement of presidential campaigns.
Sources within the ADC disclosed that Tambuwal has emerged as the leading candidate for the influential position because of his close political relationship with Atiku and his previous experience managing the former vice president’s 2023 presidential campaign when both were members of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
A party insider, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the decision has not been officially announced, identified Tambuwal as the favourite for the role.
“Tambuwal,” the source simply replied when asked who was being considered to lead Atiku’s campaign organisation.
The source further disclosed that if the appointment is confirmed, Tambuwal would work closely with Atiku’s running mate, former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, in coordinating campaign activities across the country.
“Amaechi will work alongside Tambuwal even though the former Rivers governor is the running mate of the ex-vice president,” The Punch quoted the source.
Tambuwal is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s experienced political figures, having served as Speaker of the House of Representatives, two-term Governor of Sokoto State and currently representing Sokoto South Senatorial District in the Senate. He joined the ADC in March 2026 after leaving the PDP and later announced that he would not seek another term in the Senate, saying the decision would promote unity and create opportunities for younger politicians.
Despite reports linking him to the campaign role, ADC officials insist consultations are still ongoing.
A chieftain of the party and former PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, said no final decision had been reached.
“They have not agreed on a name yet but they are to meet this Wednesday,” Osadolor said, adding that “some names have been suggested.”
While the ADC appears close to naming its campaign chief, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) is still weighing its options for President Bola Tinubu’s re-election campaign.
Sources within the Presidency and the APC said former Nasarawa State Governor Tanko Al-Makura and Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma are the leading contenders for the position of Director-General of Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima’s campaign organisation.
Although no final choice has been made, party insiders said Uzodimma currently enjoys the support of influential stakeholders within the APC. According to them, factors such as political experience, organisational ability, regional balance and religious considerations are influencing the selection process.
One Presidency source said, “At the moment, it is still unclear who will eventually lead the campaign organisation. However, Governor Hope Uzodimma is the person being tipped by party stakeholders to head the APC’s presidential campaign team. That could still change before a final decision is made.”
The source added that the consideration of Uzodimma is partly linked to efforts to project religious balance, given that both Tinubu and Shettima are Muslims.
Meanwhile, other political parties are also finalising their campaign structures. Officials of the Labour Party, the New Nigeria Peoples Party, the Social Democratic Party and the National Democratic Congress said announcements on their campaign directors-general would be made before presidential campaigns officially begin.
National Publicity Secretary of the National Democratic Coalition, Osa Director, confirmed that consultations were still in progress.
“We have not decided on that. We are also meeting and consultation. Once the consultation is concluded, we shall announce the DG of our campaign at the appropriate time,” he said.
