Former minister and diplomat Ambassador Bashir Yuguda has challenged recent remarks by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar that described the administration of former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as inexperienced. Yuguda called the assertion inaccurate and inconsistent with Nigeria documented political history.
In a statement released to the media Yuguda acknowledged that Atiku referred to Jonathan as a decent man but warned against what he described as misleading claims that distort the former president record. Drawing from his experience serving under Jonathan Yuguda outlined the former leader steady rise through key positions including Deputy Governor Governor Vice President Acting President and ultimately President.
He emphasized that Jonathan leadership was marked by measurable achievements particularly in the economic sector where Nigeria became Africa largest economy at the time. According to Yuguda this growth was supported by improved investor confidence and relative macroeconomic ility driven by deliberate policy decisions.
Yuguda also highlighted reforms in agriculture which improved food supply and earned Nigeria recognition for progress in reducing hunger. In infrastructure he pointed to the revival of rail transport including the rehabilitation of the Zaria Gusau Kaura Namoda rail line which he said improved mobility and reduced transportation challenges.
On foreign relations Yuguda noted that Nigeria strengthened its global standing during Jonathan tenure securing election to the United Nations Security Council twice within a short period. He added that Nigeria voice carried influence in international affairs.
He further described Jonathan as a leader committed to peace and democracy citing his decision to concede defeat in the 2015 elections as a defining moment in Nigeria democratic journey. Yuguda concluded by urging Nigerians to assess past leaders based on verifiable records rather than revisionist narratives.
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