The African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to nominate former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan as Nigeria’s candidate for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations, describing him as a statesman with the experience and temperament required for the global role.
In a statement issued on Thursday, the consortium said the world is facing growing challenges, including armed conflicts, climate change, democratic instability, displacement, and widening inequality, which require a leader with proven diplomatic skills and a commitment to peaceful conflict resolution.
The APRC argued that Jonathan’s record as Nigeria’s Vice President from 2007 to 2010 and President from 2010 to 2015, combined with his post-presidential international engagements, makes him a strong contender for the UN’s highest office. It noted that his rise from Bayelsa State to Nigeria’s presidency reflects an inspiring leadership journey.
The group also highlighted Jonathan’s acceptance of defeat in the 2015 presidential election, saying his peaceful transfer of power strengthened Nigeria’s democracy and set an example of constitutional governance across Africa.
According to the consortium, Jonathan has continued to play key roles in promoting democracy and peace through election observation and mediation missions under the African Union, ECOWAS, COMESA, IGAD, and the West African Elders Forum. It said his involvement in resolving political disputes, including the Guinea-Bissau crisis, has earned him international respect.
The APRC maintained that Jonathan’s approach to leadership, which emphasizes dialogue, consultation, and consensus-building over confrontation, aligns with the qualities expected of a United Nations Secretary-General. It added that his experience in managing Nigeria’s diversity has equipped him to navigate complex global issues.
The consortium urged President Tinubu to formally present Jonathan’s candidacy to the international community, insisting that his leadership credentials and diplomatic experience position him to provide the kind of balanced and unifying leadership the United Nations needs at this critical period.
