Former President Goodluck Jonathan has said he will consult widely before deciding whether to contest in the 2027 presidential election.

Jonathan made the statement on Thursday in Abuja after a group of supporters visited his office and urged him to join the presidential race.

Speaking to the supporters, the former president stressed the importance of patriotism, peace and credible elections in Nigeria.

According to him, patriotic citizens help to build a nation, while unpatriotic people destroy it for personal gain.

Jonathan also encouraged Nigerian youths to remain actively involved in the country’s democratic process, especially by participating in elections and exercising their right to vote.

He said peaceful and credible elections are necessary if good people are to participate in politics.

“The key thing we need in this country is peace,” he said.

Jonathan noted that many of the young people present may have been very young when he served as president, but urged them to continue advocating for peaceful elections and national unity.

The former president also revealed that he has observed elections in more than 14 African countries, some on multiple occasions.

Speaking on calls for him to contest in 2027, Jonathan said presidential elections are serious matters and not something to approach casually.

“Presidential race is not a computer game, but I heard you, and I will consult widely,” he said.

He added that Nigeria needs leaders and young people who will think about the future and work towards building a better country for the coming generations.