Major Hamza Al-Mustapha Joins 2027 Presidential Race, Promises Integrity and Bold Reforms Under SDP

 

Retired Major Hamza Al-Mustapha, former Chief Security Officer to the late Head of State, General Sani Abacha, has officially thrown his hat into the political ring ahead of the 2027 general elections. He made a formal declaration to contest for the office of President under the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The announcement was made during a high-level strategy session held in Minna, Niger State, where Al-Mustapha met with the state executive council of the SDP, along with a large group of enthusiastic supporters. The gathering marked the beginning of what is expected to be a nationwide consultative tour aimed at building momentum for his presidential ambition.

While addressing party members and supporters, Al-Mustapha expressed deep concern over the deteriorating conditions in the country, stating that Nigeria is in dire need of purposeful leadership. His tone was both urgent and hopeful, as he laid out his determination to bring about transformative change through service, unity, and national rebirth.

“The condition of our country weighs heavily on my heart,” he told attendees. “Yet, I believe in the potential of this great nation. Together, we can overcome the current difficulties and chart a new course for Nigeria. The journey ahead will be tough, but it is not insurmountable.”

The retired military officer emphasized that his campaign would be anchored on a foundation of integrity, courage, and strategic foresight. He noted that the gathering in Minna was part of a broader plan to engage with political stakeholders, civil society groups, and grassroots communities across all six geopolitical zones.

According to a statement from Jubril Umar Sanda, the Director of News Media and ICT for the campaign, Al-Mustapha is fully prepared to pursue the presidency with a clear and actionable vision for Nigeria’s future. The statement also noted that the SDP aspirant is not merely interested in political power but is motivated by a desire to serve and to rebuild a nation in distress.

After the meeting in Minna, Al-Mustapha continued on to Mokwa, a town recently affected by a devastating flood disaster that left more than 200 people displaced and caused extensive property damage. His visit to the flood victims highlighted his campaign’s commitment to humanitarian concerns and responsive leadership. He took time to commiserate with affected families, calling for more sustainable disaster management systems and stronger government support during national emergencies.

Speaking to reporters during the visit, he reiterated the urgent need for unity and inclusion in governance, stressing that Nigeria's future must be built on mutual respect, collaboration, and forward-thinking policies. He urged citizens not to lose hope, noting that the country’s problems are solvable with the right leadership in place.

Alhaji Buhari Yakubu Yarima, the Niger State Chairman of the SDP, warmly received Al-Mustapha’s declaration. He applauded the former military officer’s sense of duty and unwavering commitment to national service. Yarima expressed confidence that the SDP would gain significant ground in the next general elections, especially with credible and determined candidates joining its ranks.

“With the kind of leadership Major Al-Mustapha represents, we are optimistic about our chances in 2027,” Yarima said. “Our party is ready to present a strong, united front that addresses the yearnings of ordinary Nigerians.”

The declaration by Al-Mustapha comes at a time when many citizens are clamoring for new faces and fresh perspectives in Nigerian politics. Widespread dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs has led to growing calls for reform and visionary leadership. Against this backdrop, political movements and aspirants are beginning to outline their visions for a better Nigeria.

For Al-Mustapha, the road ahead is one filled with both promise and complexity. His past as a security chief during one of Nigeria’s most controversial regimes may raise questions, but his message now is clear: the country needs healing, and he believes he has the will and the plan to lead that process.

With 2027 still some distance away, the political terrain is already shifting. As new contenders step forward and alliances begin to form, Nigeria’s path to the next election promises to be one of the most keenly watched in recent history. Whether Al-Mustapha can translate his military background and national exposure into political capital remains to be seen, but his entrance into the race has certainly added a new dimension to the conversation.