By Steve Azaiki
Today, Nigeria, Africa, and friends across the world celebrate a man whose life story continues to inspire generations — His Excellency, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan, GCFR, President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (2010–2015). It is a double celebration: his 68th birthday and the 10th anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), a global force for peace, democracy, and good governance.
From the humble, swampy backwaters of Otueke in Bayelsa State, President Jonathan’s life is a testament to the transformative power of faith, education, and destiny. Born in a riverine community where opportunity was scarce and the environment harsh, he understood early that he must rise above the prevailing poverty of his time. Rather than follow the traditional occupations of canoe carving and fishing, he embraced education — the most powerful gift the world had brought to our shores. Through sheer determination, he rose from classroom teacher to lecturer, and then into public service, ultimately earning a Doctorate in Zoology at a time when such academic accomplishment was rare in our Niger Delta communities.
His political rise remains one of the most remarkable in Nigeria’s history: Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President, Acting President, and President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Yet it is his character — humility, patriotism, compassion, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to peace — that has cemented his legacy. He famously affirmed that “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian,” a philosophy that continues to set him apart as a statesman of uncommon conviction.
The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation at 10
A decade ago, President Jonathan transformed his global goodwill into a platform that has touched lives across Africa. The Goodluck Jonathan Foundation has become a beacon for democratic consolidation, credible elections, leadership training, peacebuilding, women and youth empowerment, and conflict resolution.
Across the continent, the Foundation has:
• Deployed and trained election observers
• Mediated political conflicts and promoted peaceful transitions
• Convened global thinkers and African leaders to address governance challenges
• Supported the strengthening of democratic institutions
• Championed inclusive leadership and citizen participation
Today, world leaders, scholars, and civil society organisations celebrate a decade of impact — a testament to President Jonathan’s post-presidential devotion to the service of humanity.
A Personal Reflection: More Than Two Decades of Friendship and Service
My relationship with President Jonathan spans more than twenty years, dating back to our time in Bayelsa State when he served as Deputy Governor under Chief DSP Alamieyeseigha and I served as the Secretary to the State Government. Through the years, we worked together on numerous committees at the state and national levels — all geared toward strengthening democracy, broadening good governance, and improving the lives of our people.
In all these engagements, I encountered a man guided by a profound sense of purpose. His humility is genuine, his simplicity remarkable, and his commitment to fairness unshakeable. He builds friendships easily, bridges divides effortlessly, and carries himself with a calmness that reassures even in moments of national tension.
To me, President Jonathan is not only a leader but a man on a divine assignment — one whose journey continues to reflect God’s grace and guidance.
A Pan-African and Global Statesman
Across Africa, President Jonathan is recognized as a stabilizing figure — a leader in the tradition of Kwame Nkrumah, Julius Nyerere, and Nelson Mandela. Global observers, diplomats, and ordinary citizens acknowledge him as a voice of wisdom and a champion of peaceful transitions.
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Some believe he can once again serve Nigeria at the highest level; others see him destined for an international role such as Secretary-General of the United Nations. Whatever the future holds, one truth remains undeniable: Nigeria and Africa owe him immense gratitude for his service, sacrifice, and leadership.
A Celebration Across Communities
As Nigerians gather today — in Abuja, in Yenagoa, and in Otueke — the celebrations echo the pride of a nation and the joy of a people grateful for a son who brought honour to his community, his state, and his country. In Otueke, the Ebeneken’s symbolic proclamation reflects the collective pride of a hometown that gave the world one of Africa’s great democrats.
My Birthday Tribute
Your Excellency, my dear President Jonathan, I join your family, your friends, and millions across the world to celebrate you. May God grant you many more years of service to Nigeria, Africa, and humanity. May He keep you in good health and grant you the desires of your heart.
Happy Birthday, sir.
Congratulations on the 10th Anniversary of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation.
Professor Steve Azaiki, OON, is the
Co-Chair, National Think Tank Nigeria.