Amaechi declared his intention on Saturday, during the Rivers All Progressives Congress (APC) thanksgiving in Port Harcourt.

Amaechi said, “I stand before you today to declare my intention and submit my application to serve as your next President.

“I did not come to this decision lightly. I have served as Minister of Transportation, Governor for eight years, and another eight years as Speaker.

“I have served as Director-General of President Muhammadu Buhari’s campaign twice.

“I am well equipped for the presidency and have compassion for Nigeria.”

“I am compelled to place my experience and proven capacity for the service of the nation at the highest level,” Amaechi added.

He said that the Buhari administration had planted trees for the future of Nigerians.

Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State, former APC National Chairman Comrade Adams Oshiomole, Senator Ali Ndume, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Ahmed Idris Wase, Minister of State for Transportation Gbemisola Saraki, and former Jigawa State Governor Jibrilla Bindow were among those present at Amaechi’s declaration.

With Amaechi’s declaration, he will face off against APC national leader Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Governor Yahaya Bello of Kogi State, Senator Orji Uzor Kalu, and Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State, among others, for the ruling party’s ticket.