Former Nigerian President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has urged Nigerian youths to become more involved in the country’s democratic process as discussions around the 2027 presidential election continue to gather momentum.

Jonathan made the remarks in Abuja on Thursday after a group of young supporters visited his residence to appeal for his return to the presidential race in 2027.

Addressing the gathering, the former president stressed the importance of obtaining Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) and participating actively in elections rather than merely calling on leaders to contest.

He expressed concern over the increasing level of voter apathy in the country, noting that many Nigerians show little interest in electoral activities despite demanding political change.

According to Jonathan, a significant number of the youths urging him to run may not even possess voter cards, making it difficult to drive meaningful democratic participation.

He also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to pay closer attention to the declining interest of citizens in the electoral process, insisting that young Nigerians must play a stronger role in shaping the nation’s future through active political engagement.

Jonathan became Nigeria’s president in 2010 following the death of Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and later secured a fresh mandate after winning the 2011 presidential election.

Although the Bayelsa-born politician has not officially declared interest in the 2027 contest after losing the 2015 election to Muhammadu Buhari, calls for his return to power have continued to surface from different quarters.

However, some political commentators maintain that constitutional interpretations surrounding presidential tenure may pose challenges to another possible bid.