Subscribe: Gist E-Paper
The African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to nominate former President Goodluck Jonathan for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, describing him as a credible and experienced leader capable of steering the world's foremost diplomatic institution.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the Convener of the consortium, Prof. Edward Agbai, said Jonathan possesses the leadership experience, democratic credentials and diplomatic qualities required to occupy the highly coveted global office.
According to Agbai, the United Nations requires a Secretary-General with proven executive experience, a strong commitment to democratic values and the ability to navigate complex global political and security challenges.
He noted that Jonathan's service as Nigeria's Vice President between 2007 and 2010, and later as President from 2010 to 2015, demonstrated responsible leadership and sound governance.
The consortium highlighted Jonathan's decision to concede defeat in the 2015 presidential election, describing it as a defining moment that strengthened Nigeria's democracy and set a positive example for peaceful democratic transitions across Africa.
APRC further stated that since leaving office, the former President has remained actively involved in promoting democracy, peacebuilding and conflict resolution through election observation and mediation missions across the continent.
The group cited Jonathan's engagements with regional and continental organisations, including the African Union, ECOWAS, COMESA, IGAD and the West African Elders Forum, saying his diplomatic interventions have earned him global respect.
It added that Jonathan's approach of resolving political disputes through dialogue, consultation and consensus-building aligns with the core responsibilities of a United Nations Secretary-General.
The consortium also argued that Jonathan's experience in governing Nigeria, one of Africa's most diverse nations, has equipped him with valuable insights into development, security, environmental and governance issues confronting the international community
.
APRC urged the Federal Government to commence diplomatic consultations with African countries and other strategic partners to rally support for Jonathan's candidacy, maintaining that his record of democratic leadership and regional diplomacy makes him a strong contender. It added that backing Jonathan's nomination would not only advance Nigeria's foreign policy interests but also strengthen Africa's quest for greater representation in global governance.
