Pressure is mounting on former President Goodluck Jonathan to join the 2027 presidential race, as the Goodluck Presidential Support Campaign Group formally called on him to declare his intention.

At a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, the group’s Director General, Jeff Okoi, described the appeal as a crucial step in shaping Nigeria’s future leadership at a time he characterised as critical for the country. The event brought together members of the press, civil society representatives, and international observers.

Okoi said the group is made up of individuals committed to Nigeria’s unity, growth, and prosperity, noting that their call was based on careful consideration of Jonathan’s leadership record rather than sentiment.

He stressed that Nigeria is currently facing significant challenges that require experienced leadership, national cohesion, economic recovery, and renewed global confidence.

According to him, the group’s position followed consultations across the country’s geopolitical zones and engagement with key stakeholders. He described the call as both urgent and necessary to address issues of division, stagnation, and uncertainty.

Formally presenting the group’s stance, Okoi urged Jonathan to step forward and contest the 2027 presidential election, aligning the call with what he described as the wishes of many Nigerians.

He highlighted Jonathan’s past leadership, describing him as a statesman known for humility, democratic stability, and international respect. He added that his previous efforts in strengthening institutions and promoting unity remain relevant to the country’s current needs.

The group also expressed concern over what it called a shrinking democratic space, warning that democracy must be built on inclusiveness, fairness, and open competition rather than restriction.

It further argued that Nigeria requires a leader capable of addressing key issues such as economic recovery, national security, youth empowerment, and institutional reform, while maintaining both domestic credibility and global recognition.

Okoi said the call represents more than support for an individual, but a broader vision of a united and stable Nigeria driven by progress and shared prosperity.

He appealed to Nigerians across political, regional, and ideological divides to support the initiative, urging collective action in pursuit of national development.

The group also called on the media to report responsibly, emphasizing the importance of accuracy and fairness in covering political developments.

The latest appeal adds to increasing calls for Jonathan to return to active politics ahead of the 2027 elections. Recently, a youth group under the Coalition for Goodluck Jonathan staged a rally at his Abuja residence, urging him to re-enter the political arena.

Led by its National President, Tom Ohikere, the group said its position followed months of consultations nationwide, maintaining that Jonathan remains a unifying figure capable of addressing the country’s political and economic challenges.

Although Jonathan has not publicly declared his intention to run, similar appeals from political groups and civil society organisations continue to surface, echoing calls made in previous election cycles.

Jonathan, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2010 to 2015, has since remained active in diplomacy and election observation efforts across Africa.