A new political movement backing former President Goodluck Jonathan has been launched, with a strong appeal for him to contest the 2027 presidential election.
The group, known as the Goodluck Presidential Support Campaign Group, made its position public on Wednesday during a press conference.
It said Nigeria needs experienced leadership at a time of deep national challenges.Nigeria travel guides
Speaking at the event, the Director General of the group, Jeff Okoi, described the moment as critical for the country’s future. He said the gathering was aimed at presenting a united position on leadership ahead of the next general election.
He stated that the group is made up of Nigerians committed to unity, growth, and stability. According to him, the call for Jonathan’s return is based on his track record in office and not emotions.
“Today marks a defining moment in our national journey—a moment that calls for reflection, courage, and decisive action.”
Okoi said Nigeria is facing serious economic and political issues that require tested leadership. He pointed to insecurity, economic struggles, and declining global confidence as key concerns.Nigeria travel guides
“Our nation stands at a critical juncture, confronted by serious challenges that demand experienced leadership, national unity, economic revitalisation, and restored global confidence,” he said.
The group explained that its decision followed consultations across different regions of the country. It said it also engaged stakeholders before arriving at the conclusion to back Jonathan.
“It is against this compelling backdrop that we gather to make a solemn and patriotic declaration—a declaration not only of hope, but of urgency to rescue Nigeria from the grip of uncertainty, division, stagnation, and to restore her to the path of stability, progress, and shared prosperity,” Okoi stated.
He then made the group’s position clear.
“The Goodluck Presidential Support Campaign Group, in alignment with millions of well-meaning Nigerians, hereby formally calls on His Excellency, Dr Goodluck Jonathan, to answer the call of history and offer himself for the 2027 Presidential Election of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.”Nigeria travel guides
Okoi described the former president as a leader with humility and international respect. He said Jonathan’s past role in strengthening democracy remains important at this time.
“Jonathan remains a statesman of uncommon humility, a symbol of democratic stability, and a respected global ambassador of peace,” he said.
The group also raised concerns about Nigeria’s political environment. It warned that the democratic space is becoming limited.
“The growing concerns about the narrowing of democratic space and the concentration of political power must not be ignored. Democracy thrives on inclusiveness, healthy competition, and fairness—not suppression,” he added.
According to the group, the country needs leadership that understands governance and can unite diverse groups. It listed economic recovery, security, youth empowerment, and institutional reforms as urgent priorities.
“Nigeria needs a leader who understands governance, appreciates our diversity, and commands both national legitimacy and international respect,” Okoi stated.
He said the campaign is not just about an individual but about a broader national goal.
“Through this call, we are not merely presenting a candidate—we are advancing a clear and compelling national vision: a united and indivisible Nigeria; a nation rescued from despair and restored to hope and shared prosperity.”
The group called on Nigerians across party lines to support the move. It urged citizens to put aside differences and focus on national interest.
“We therefore call on all well-meaning Nigerians across party lines, regions, and ideologies to rise above division and join this noble and historic movement,” he said.
Okoi also appealed to the media to report the development responsibly as political activities ahead of 2027 begin to gather momentum.
The latest move adds to increasing pressure on Jonathan to return to active politics. In recent weeks, youth groups and civil society organisations have also staged rallies in Abuja, urging him to contest.
One of such demonstrations was led by Tom Ohikere, who said their demand followed months of consultations across the country.
Despite the growing calls, Jonathan has not made any official statement on whether he will run in the 2027 election.