ABUJA, Sep 15 – Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan announced Wednesday on his Facebook page he would contest the January presidential poll, ending months of speculation on his ambition.
"I, Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, by the grace of God hereby offer myself and my services to the Nigerian people as a candidate for the office of President in the forthcoming 2011 elections," Jonathan said on his Facebook page.
The president said he had made his decision after "wide and thorough consultations" across Nigeria.
He said a formal declaration would be made in Abuja on Saturday.
No presidential official was immediately available to confirm.
A cabinet meeting was underway early Wednesday.
ABUJA