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Tag: Former President Goodluck Jonathan

  • Independence Day: Former President Jonathan Encourages Nigerians to Remain Resilient

    Independence Day: Former President Jonathan Encourages Nigerians to Remain Resilient

    By Daniel Edu

    In a statement issued by his media aide, Ikechukwu Eze, former President Goodluck Jonathan commended Nigerians for their unwavering loyalty to the nation in the face of both achievements and developmental hurdles that have marked the country’s journey since gaining independence.

    Jonathan, the former leader of the nation, expressed these sentiments in Abuja as Nigeria celebrated its 63rd year of independence from Britain.

    “As we mark 63 years since our beloved country achieved independence, it is an opportune moment for us to reflect on Nigeria’s remarkable voyage as a nation. We must acknowledge our modest achievements, reassess the challenges we have overcome, devise strategies to address present difficulties, and rekindle our hopes for a brighter future,” Jonathan stated.

    Jonathan recognized the mixed bag of progress and setbacks that Nigeria has experienced throughout its history, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of patriotic Nigerians who have stood firm in support of their nation during moments of success and disappointment.

    While acknowledging that disappointment may have crept into the hearts of many, particularly the youth, due to unfulfilled national aspirations, Jonathan urged them to revisit the milestones that offer promising glimpses of a better future.

    “Instead of succumbing to despair, we should focus on the positive signs that point towards a promising future, drawing inspiration from our history of resilience. Nigeria has weathered storms, including a civil war, economic downturns, and persistent socio-political challenges. We have consistently relied on the indomitable spirit that guided our founding fathers, enabling us to remain resolute and determined,” Jonathan affirmed.

    He also emphasized that this same spirit continues to empower Nigerians to confront contemporary challenges such as terrorism, insecurity, economic hardships, and the escalating effects of climate change.

    Jonathan highlighted the spirit that has driven Nigerians to excel on the global stage in various fields, including sports, medicine, music, arts, technology, and scholarship.

    “As we celebrate yet another Independence Day, let us channel our collective energy towards promoting equity, justice, and peace. Let us strive to foster national unity and realize Nigeria’s full potential as a beacon of liberty and progress for all of Africa. Happy Independence Anniversary, and may God bless Nigeria,” concluded Jonathan.

  • It’s too early to talk about 2023 presidency, Jonathan says as he reacts to rumoured ambition

    It’s too early to talk about 2023 presidency, Jonathan says as he reacts to rumoured ambition

    Former President Goodluck Jonathan seems to be undecided yet about returning to office in 2023 when President Muhammadu Buhari completes his second term.

    Speculations that the former president may take over power from President Buhari, who succeeded him in 2015, may not end soon as Dr Jonathan could not give a definite position on his rumoured ambition.

    He had a brief session with reporters on Friday after attending an event organised by the Commonwealth Community Choir in Abuja, the nation’s capital.

    READ ALSO: UN: Worsened insecurity in Nigeria caused by COVID-19

    When asked if he would be joining the presidential race in the 2023 general elections, Dr Jonathan said, “It is too early to talk about that.”

    He also spoke about the issue of insecurity in the country and called for support for the Federal Government and the security agencies to overcome the challenges.

    The former president noted that Nigeria was not the only country affected by insecurity, adding that he had his challenges to deal with while in office.

    He also spoke about the political crisis in Mali, saying the situation has been brought under control following the intervention of ECOWAS.

    Dr Jonathan contested the 2015 presidential election on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) but lost and conceded defeat to President Buhari of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

    It was the first time an incumbent president would lose re-election and conceded defeat in the history of Nigeria.

    This earned him accolades within and outside the country, leading to his emergence as ECOWAS special envoy.

    He first assumed the office of the President of Nigeria between 2010 to 2011, succeeding former President Musa Yar’Adua’s who died May 5, 2010.

    Upon completing the term, Dr Jonathan ran for President on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2011 and won, extending his stay in office by another four years.

    He had served as the Bayelsa State Governor between 2005 and 2007, and later Vice President from 2007 to 2010.