Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will take time to consult with key stakeholders before deciding whether to contest in the 2027 presidential election.
Jonathan made this known on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office and appealed to him to return to active politics ahead of the next general election.
Addressing the crowd, the former Nigerian leader acknowledged their calls and said running for the presidency was not a decision to be taken lightly.
According to him, the presidency is a serious responsibility that requires deep reflection and broad consultations before any final decision can be made.
“Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” Jonathan told the supporters.
The group had gathered at his office to persuade him to re-enter the political scene, pointing to his leadership experience and contributions to democracy in Nigeria and across Africa.
While responding to their appeal, Jonathan thanked them for their support and stressed the importance of patriotism, peaceful coexistence and credible elections in the country.
He noted that no nation can make meaningful progress without citizens who genuinely care about the future of their country.
Jonathan said patriotic citizens help build strong nations, while selfish individuals only seek personal gain at the expense of national development.
The former President also emphasized that peace remains one of the most important needs of the country, urging young Nigerians to continue promoting unity and stability.
He encouraged youths to remain committed to peaceful and transparent elections, saying democracy can only survive when people trust the electoral process.
Jonathan warned that violent or manipulated elections could discourage responsible and qualified citizens from participating in politics.
He further urged Nigerian youths to actively participate in elections, especially by exercising their right to vote and staying engaged in the democratic process.
Drawing from his experience as an election observer across several African countries since leaving office, Jonathan said peaceful democratic transitions are critical for national development.
He added that Nigeria must be built with future generations in mind, stressing the need for leaders and citizens who will think beyond immediate personal interests.
Jonathan said the country must be positioned in a way that guarantees a better future for children and generations yet unborn.
The former President lost his re-election bid in 2015 to the late Muhammadu Buhari, becoming the first sitting Nigerian president to concede defeat and peacefully hand over power to an opposition candidate.
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