Jonathan Defends Record, Tells Atiku: “I Made Mistakes, But Did My Best”

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has responded to criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, acknowledging that while errors were made during his administration, he governed with the country’s best interests at heart. His remarks come after Atiku questioned his leadership capacity, describing his tenure as lacking experience.

Jonathan made his position clear during the 2025 Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN) awards ceremony in Abuja, where he rejected claims that his age at the time undermined his effectiveness. He maintained that leadership inevitably involves mistakes and that no administration is immune from challenges.

Jonathan Counters Claims of Inexperience

Jonathan dismissed the argument that he was too young to lead when he assumed office in 2010 at the age of 53. He noted that such criticism fails to recognise the complexities of governance and the realities of decision-making at the highest level.

He argued that no leader, regardless of experience, can avoid mistakes entirely. According to him, even those who consider themselves highly capable are bound to face difficult choices that may not always yield perfect outcomes. He stressed that his administration approached national issues with a sense of responsibility and commitment.

In defending his record, Jonathan pointed to Nigeria’s diplomatic achievements during his tenure, particularly the country’s election to the United Nations Security Council. He suggested that such milestones required strategic leadership and could not have been achieved through inexperience.

Focus on Regional Stability and ECOWAS Challenges

Beyond the political exchange, Jonathan used the occasion to address broader regional concerns, warning that political instability continues to hinder economic growth across West Africa. He emphasised that without stable governance structures, meaningful development in the region would remain difficult.

Referring to the role of the Economic Community of West African States, Jonathan highlighted the tension between enforcing democratic standards and respecting national sovereignty. He noted that while ECOWAS was established to promote cooperation and integration, recurring political crises have limited its effectiveness.

He called on leaders within the bloc to strengthen collaboration and agree on concrete measures to ensure political stability, stressing that economic integration cannot succeed without solid democratic foundations.

Tributes to ECOWAS Founders and Diplomatic Legacy

The event also served as a platform to honour key figures in Nigeria’s diplomatic history, including former Head of State Yakubu Gowon. Jonathan described the creation of ECOWAS in 1975 as a bold step toward regional unity and economic cooperation.

Gowon, reflecting on the origins of the organisation, linked its formation to post-war diplomatic engagements and a shared vision among West African leaders. He noted that the idea of regional cooperation emerged from a desire to strengthen ties and promote collective progress.

Speakers at the event, including senior military and diplomatic officials, emphasised the importance of sustaining this legacy. They highlighted diplomacy as a critical but often understated tool for maintaining stability, preventing conflict, and fostering international partnerships.

Jonathan’s response underscores an ongoing political debate about leadership, experience, and accountability in Nigeria. While acknowledging imperfections, he defended his administration’s intentions and achievements, while also shifting attention to broader regional challenges that continue to shape the country’s political and economic landscape.