Malam Nasir Ahmad El-Rufai, the former Governor of Kaduna State, has officially announced his departure from the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and subsequently joined the African Democratic Congress (ADC). The resignation was formalized through a letter dated November 26, 2025, which was addressed to the SDP Chairman of Ungwan Sarki Ward. El-Rufai stated that his decision was effective immediately, emphasizing his commitment to establishing "a stronger, unified political platform for Nigerians."

Following his resignation, El-Rufai promptly visited the ADC office located in Ungwan Sarki Ward, Kaduna. There, he was formally registered as a member and received his official party membership card. This move aligns with the ADC's stated principles, as the party's leadership had earlier reiterated its commitment to clearing only individuals with proven integrity and corruption-free records for contesting elections or holding public office under its banner.

Addressing journalists after a significant stakeholders’ meeting in Gusau, El-Rufai, who now serves as the African Democratic Congress's Deputy National Leader for the North-West region, outlined the party's strategic priorities. He highlighted the ADC's focus on fostering internal unity, ensuring fairness and transparency in its primary elections, and promoting broader participation, particularly for young people and persons with disabilities. He further noted that the party's constitution incorporates a distinctive code of ethics designed to guide the conduct of its leaders and aspirants, underscoring a commitment to ethical governance.

El-Rufai also confirmed that previous leadership disputes within the party's Zamfara State structure had been successfully resolved, asserting that the ADC's presence in the state is now "formidable, united and strong." He expressed his appreciation for the warm reception he received from party members and strongly encouraged all Nigerians, especially supporters of the ADC, to actively participate in the ongoing voter registration exercise to enhance democratic engagement and strengthen the political process.