Jonathan has urged politicians to put Nigeria first ahead of party loyalty.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerian politicians to prioritise national interest over party loyalty, warning that ethnic, religious and regional divisions remain major obstacles to the country’s political development.
Jonathan made the call on Tuesday while addressing the 5th National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria in Abuja. He was represented at the event by former Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Bala Ngilari.
The former president said Nigeria’s progress depended on the willingness of political leaders to rise above sectional interests and embrace competence, integrity and inclusive governance.
“One major obstacle to Nigeria’s political development is division along ethnic, religious and regional lines. We must rise above these differences and promote politics founded on competence, integrity, inclusion and national interest,” he said.
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Jonathan stressed that Nigeria must remain more important than any political party, individual or sectional interest, urging politicians to place the country’s collective welfare at the centre of their decisions.
He also called on former deputy governors to deploy their wealth of experience to promote national unity and mentor younger politicians.
According to him, their experience in public office places them in a position to contribute meaningfully to political development and strengthen democratic governance.
Reflecting on his own political journey, Jonathan said his experience as deputy governor and governor of Bayelsa State before becoming vice-president and subsequently president had given him an understanding of the demands and responsibilities of public office.
“The experience teaches patience, loyalty, consultation and teamwork. Above all, it reminds us that governance is not about one individual but about strong institutions and service to the people,” he added.
The former president’s remarks highlighted the need for political leaders to strengthen institutions, promote cooperation across party lines and ensure that public service is guided by the interests of Nigerians.
His call comes amid continued debates over national unity, political divisions and the role of leadership in advancing Nigeria’s democratic and economic development.
