Former President Goodluck Jonathan has responded to criticism from ex Vice President Atiku Abubakar, rejecting claims that his leadership was weakened by inexperience.
Atiku, who is currently seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress, had described Jonathan as inexperienced during an interview, arguing that this contributed to challenges faced during his administration.
Speaking at the 2025 awards ceremony of the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria in Abuja, Jonathan acknowledged that leadership inevitably involves mistakes but dismissed the suggestion that his age was a limiting factor.
He noted that he assumed office in 2010 at the age of 53 and left in 2015 at 58, questioning the notion that he was too young to govern effectively. According to him, no leader can claim a perfect record, as decision making at that level always comes with challenges.
Defending his tenure, Jonathan highlighted Nigeria’s diplomatic achievements, including securing a seat on the United Nations Security Council during his administration. He argued that such accomplishments demonstrate strategic leadership rather than inexperience.
Beyond the exce, Jonathan also addressed broader regional concerns, warning that political inility continues to hinder economic growth across West Africa. He stressed that without le governance systems, meaningful development would remain difficult to achieve.
Referencing the role of the Economic Community of West African States, he said the organisation’s vision for economic integration has been slowed by recurring political crises within member states. He added that enforcing democratic standards sometimes creates tensions around national sovereignty.
Jonathan called on leaders in the region to strengthen cooperation and prioritise political ility as a foundation for economic progress. He emphasised that effective collaboration among heads of state is essential to ensuring long term growth and unity.
He also paid tribute to the founders of ECOWAS, including Yakubu Gowon, describing the creation of the bloc in 1975 as a bold step toward regional cooperation and integration.
The event also featured remarks from diplomatic and military leaders who highlighted the importance of service, ility, and continued engagement in shaping Nigeria’s role on the global stage.
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