The Nigerian Youth Unions Government, NYUG, alongside several youth-based organisations across the country, has called on former President Goodluck Jonathan to contest the 2027 presidential election, describing him as the leader capable of restoring stability, economic growth and national unity.
The call was made during a press conference held on Thursday in Abuja, where youth leaders from different regions of the country gathered to endorse the former president and urge him to return to active politics.
Among the groups present at the event were the Oduduwa Youth Parliament, Arewa Youth Federation, Ohaneze Youth Assembly, Niger Delta Youth Force and other socio-political youth organisations.
Speaking at the briefing, the National President of NYUG, Hon. Godstime Chukwubuikem Samuel, said Nigeria was currently facing worsening economic hardship, insecurity and widespread frustration among citizens, insisting that Jonathan’s leadership qualities and past record in office make him the right person to lead the country again.
According to him, many Nigerians still remember Jonathan’s administration for relative economic stability, peaceful governance and respect for democratic institutions.
“Nigeria is passing through difficult times. The economy is becoming more challenging by the day, insecurity continues to rise and many citizens have lost hope. We believe Goodluck Jonathan has the experience, temperament and leadership capacity needed to stabilise the country again,” he said.
Godstime described the former president as a statesman known for humility, peace-building and commitment to democratic governance, noting that Jonathan’s administration recorded significant achievements in infrastructure, agriculture, education, power sector reforms and electoral credibility.
During Jonathan’s presidency, Nigeria witnessed major investments in rail transportation, road projects and airport modernisation, while the agricultural transformation agenda under his government boosted local farming and food production.
The youth leader also pointed to reforms in the education sector, including the establishment of several federal universities and almajiri schools across the country, as part of Jonathan’s legacy in expanding access to education.
He further praised Jonathan for conceding defeat in the 2015 presidential election, describing the move as one of the greatest democratic sacrifices in Nigeria’s history and a decision that earned him global respect.
“Former President Goodluck Jonathan placed Nigeria above personal ambition. His peaceful concession strengthened democracy and showed true statesmanship. Today, Nigerians are looking back and appreciating the value of that leadership,” he added.
The coalition maintained that Jonathan’s return could help rebuild investor confidence, restore public trust in governance and promote national unity across ethnic and religious lines.
The youth groups urged the former president to respond positively to what they described as growing nationwide calls for his return ahead of the 2027 general election.
