Goodluck Jonathan hasn't yet committed to running in 2027. The ex-president is carefully weighing his options.
On Thursday, Jonathan met with a youth coalition at his Abuja home. Supporters had organized a solidarity march in his honour.
He told the assembled youths he would consult extensively before deciding. "I have heard you loud and clear," Jonathan said to them.
Jonathan governed Nigeria from 2010 to 2015 under the PDP banner. He lost his re-election bid to Muhammadu Buhari in 2015.
His peaceful transfer of power made him a popular figure in Nigerian politics. Many Nigerians regard his era as economically and socially prosperous.
During Thursday's address, Jonathan urged young people to engage more in democracy. He stressed the importance of free, transparent, and credible elections.
Voter apathy troubles the former leader considerably. According to him, Nigeria ranks among the world's worst for electoral participation.
"Nigeria has one of the highest levels of voter apathy in all the elections I have observed globally," he noted. He called on citizens to move beyond mere spectating.
Supporters gathered around Taraba Close in Maitama. They chanted and displayed placards urging him to contest.
Traffic snarled in parts of the upscale district as the rally proceeded. Demonstrators sang, danced, and waved banners throughout.
One placard read: "GEJ: Nigeria is dying, save it!" Another proclaimed: "GEJ, if you no run, we quench."
The coalition members described Jonathan as a unifying figure. They believe he can tackle Nigeria's present political and socio-economic troubles.
Jonathan remains the sole sitting president to lose a general election in Nigeria. His 2015 concession surprised many observers across Africa.
A final decision from Jonathan won't come without serious reflection. He's committed to consulting stakeholders before announcing his plans.
