Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest the 2027 presidential election, stressing that running for Nigeria’s highest office is a serious matter that cannot be taken lightly.
Jonathan made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja when he received a group of youth organisations who visited him to urge him to return to the presidential race.
The former president, who ruled Nigeria from 2010 to 2015, said although he had listened to their appeal, any decision about contesting elections would require deep reflection and broad consultation.
“You are asking me to come and contest the next election. Presidential race is not a computer game. But I’ve heard you and I’ll consult widely,” he said.
The visit by the youths is part of growing political conversations across the country as Nigerians begin to look ahead to the 2027 general elections, even though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is yet to officially release the timetable.
Jonathan’s possible return to the political stage has in recent months become a subject of speculation in political circles, with some groups calling on him to consider another presidential bid.
However, the former president has consistently maintained that he will not rush into any decision without careful consultation.
During his meeting with the youths, Jonathan also commended them for showing interest in national affairs, describing such engagement as important for the growth of democracy.
He said patriotism and involvement in national issues are key to building a better country.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he said.
Jonathan used the opportunity to speak on the importance of peace and credible elections in Nigeria, warning that poor electoral processes discourage good citizens from participating in politics.
He said Nigeria must continue to work towards improving the integrity of its elections to strengthen democracy.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said.
“You continue to advocate for that. And you continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections in the country. Because if we don’t have peaceful and credible elections, most good citizens will not want to bother to get involved in politics.”
The former president also expressed concern over low voter turnout in Nigeria, saying the country consistently records poor participation during elections compared to other nations.
He said he had observed elections in several African countries as well as in Southeast Asia and noticed that Nigeria often performs poorly in terms of voter participation.
“I’ve observed elections in about 14 or more African countries and even Southeast Asia. Nigeria has the lowest turnout in every election cycle,” he said.
Jonathan suggested that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) may need to take a closer look at the causes of voter apathy in the country.
“I think INEC needs to do something about it. They need to start to get consultants to look at it. And what is the cause?” he added.
He also urged young Nigerians to take responsibility by participating actively in the electoral process, especially by obtaining voter cards and voting during elections.
“As young people, you must be involved in the electoral process,” he said.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50% of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election. So you must participate in the electoral process.”
Jonathan further lamented what he described as the negative perception of Nigerians abroad, saying it reflects both leadership challenges and the need for national improvement.
He said Nigerian youths often face disrespect in some foreign countries, a situation he believes must be addressed through better governance and stronger national values.
“The highest level of disdain shown to Nigerian youths abroad has to stop,” he said.
He also recalled Nigeria’s past contributions to the development of other African countries, noting that Nigerians have historically supported regional progress even during difficult times.
Jonathan, however, reiterated that he has not made any decision regarding the 2027 election and will continue consultations before taking any step.
“I will consult. I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again,” he said.
“But I am telling you that I will consult. If there is a need to, I will wait.”
Jonathan’s comments come at a time when political activities are gradually beginning to shape up ahead of the next general elections, with various groups and individuals already aligning and speculating on possible candidates.
His response has also added to ongoing national conversations about leadership, youth participation in politics and the future direction of Nigeria’s democracy.
Jonathan, who became president in 2010 following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, later won a full term in 2011 before losing the 2015 election to Muhammadu Buhari, marking the first time an incumbent Nigerian president was defeated at the polls.
Since leaving office, he has played roles in international diplomacy, including election monitoring and peace missions across Africa.
His latest remarks have once again placed him in the spotlight, as Nigerians continue to debate possible contenders for the 2027 presidential election.
For now, Jonathan insists he will not be rushed, saying any decision about his political future will come only after proper consultation and careful consideration of national interest.