Hamzat made the statement on Wednesday after President Bola Tinubu met with members of the Governance Advisory Council (GAC) of the Lagos State All Progressives Congress (APC) at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

During the meeting, Tinubu reportedly endorsed Hamzat as the APC’s consensus governorship candidate for the upcoming general elections in Lagos State.

Speaking with journalists after the meeting, Hamzat disclosed that the GAC delegation, led by its chairman, Prince Tajudeen Olusi, formally presented him to the President and secured his support for their choice.

He described the governorship role as a major responsibility but stressed that his time serving under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has given him valuable insight and preparation.

Hamzat noted that while no one can ever be fully prepared for such a demanding office, experience remains essential, adding that his exposure in government has positioned him well for the challenge ahead.

He emphasized that understanding the system and how government functions is crucial, likening it to knowing the kitchen before attempting to cook, regardless of one’s skill. According to him, his current role has given him firsthand knowledge of the inner workings of governance, making him better prepared for leadership.

Marafa, who served in the Senate between 2011 and 2019, was formally received in Abuja on Tuesday by top NDC leaders, including former Bayelsa State Governor and party figure Seriake Dickson, NDC Chairman Moses Cleopas, and National Women Leader Dudu Manuga. He arrived with a group of his supporters.

His defection comes just weeks after he joined the ADC on April 8, 2026, following his exit from the All Progressives Congress (APC) in August 2025, making it his second party switch within a short period.

Explaining his decision, Marafa cited concerns over ongoing legal disputes involving the ADC, as well as limited time before key electoral deadlines. He said the uncertainty created by court cases made it difficult to plan effectively for upcoming elections.

He noted that aspirants must align with a stable and legally secure political platform ahead of the close of party registration, warning that prolonged litigation could leave him and his supporters without a viable structure.

Marafa added that the decision was reached after careful consultations with his supporters and legal advisers, whose input influenced the final move to the NDC.

He also stated that he and his group would support the party’s eventual decision on its presidential candidate.

Welcoming him, Seriake Dickson described Marafa’s defection as a significant gain for the NDC, particularly in Zamfara State and the wider North-West, expressing confidence that his experience would strengthen the party’s presence and contribute to addressing insecurity in the region.

NDC Chairman Moses Cleopas said the party remains committed to inclusivity and is opening its platform to young people, women, and persons with disabilities as political activities intensify ahead of the next election cycle.