Former President Goodluck Jonathan has responded to criticisms from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who recently described his leadership as inexperienced. Speaking in Abuja on Monday, Jonathan rejected the claim that his age or perceived inexperience hindered his performance as Nigeria’s leader.
The former president noted that every human being makes mistakes, regardless of their position or status. He argued that becoming president at 53 and leaving at 58 was not a sign of being “too young” for the highest office in the land.
Jonathan defends his diplomatic record
During his address at the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria awards, Jonathan highlighted his administration’s foreign policy successes. He pointed specifically to Nigeria’s two-time election to the United Nations Security Council as proof of his strategic capability.
“If I were so naive, I don’t think I would have been able to navigate through that process,” he stated. He maintained that he consistently made decisions that he believed served the best interests of the Nigerian people.
Regional stability remains a priority
The former leader also expressed deep concern over the political instability currently plaguing West Africa. He warned that meaningful economic growth in the sub-region will remain elusive without stable and democratic governance systems.
Jonathan praised the founders of ECOWAS, including former Head of State Yakubu Gowon, for their vision of regional unity. He urged current African leaders to work together to enforce democratic standards and ensure long-term political stability.
