Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has said contesting for the presidency is “not a computer game” as he reacted to calls from youth groups urging him to run in the 2027 election.
Jonathan made the remarks on Thursday while receiving members of several youth organisations at his office in Abuja, where they appealed to him to return to the presidential race.
Responding to the request, the former president said he would consult widely before making any political decision, stressing that leadership required careful consideration.
“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.
Jonathan commended the youths for showing interest in the country’s future, noting that patriotism and civic participation were important for national development.
“If you have no interest in the country, you will not bother to be here,” he added.
The former president also urged young Nigerians to continue advocating for peaceful and credible elections, warning that flawed electoral processes discourage capable citizens from participating in politics.
“The key thing we need in this country is peace. You continue to advocate for that. And you continue to advocate for peaceful and credible elections in the country,” he said.
Jonathan expressed concern over Nigeria’s low voter turnout, describing it as one of the poorest among countries where he had observed elections.
“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 stated.
He challenged the youths to become more involved in the electoral process by obtaining voter cards and participating actively in elections.
“If I ask how many of you have your voter’s card now, probably 50 per cent of you don’t have your voter’s card. And you’re asking me to go and contest the election,” he said.
Jonathan also lamented the treatment of Nigerians abroad, linking it partly to leadership failures over the years.
However, he maintained that he had not taken any decision regarding the 2027 presidential election, insisting that consultations were still ongoing.
“I cannot just wake up and say I want to be the president of Nigeria again. But I am telling you that I will consult,” Jonathan said.
