Goodluck Jonathan Really Tried for This Country and Its Citizens

 

“Goodluck Jonathan Really Tried for This Country and Its Citizens”

Introduction: A Leader Revisited

In the ever-evolving landscape of Nigerian politics, few leaders have inspired as much debate, reflection, and reassessment as Goodluck Jonathan. Years after leaving office, a growing chorus of Nigerians—cutting across political, ethnic, and generational lines—are revisiting his tenure with a renewed sense of appreciation.

The phrase, “Goodluck Jonathan really tried for this country and its citizens,” once uttered quietly in private conversations, is now echoing loudly across public discourse. But beyond sentiment, what exactly did Jonathan do? And why are many Nigerians reassessing his legacy today?

This special report takes a deep dive into his presidency, examining the policies, challenges, achievements, criticisms, and enduring impact of a leader many now view through a different lens.

Early Life and Rise to Power

Born in 1957 in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Goodluck Jonathan rose from humble beginnings in the Niger Delta to the highest office in the land. A trained zoologist, he began his career as an educator before transitioning into public service.

His political journey was steady rather than dramatic:

Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State

Governor of Bayelsa State

Vice President of Nigeria

President of Nigeria (2010–2015)

Jonathan assumed the presidency following the death of Umaru Musa Yar'Adua, a moment that tested Nigeria’s constitutional order and political stability. His eventual election in 2011 marked a significant democratic milestone.

Democratic Milestone: The Peaceful Transfer of Power

One of Jonathan’s most widely praised actions came not during his time in office, but at its conclusion.

In 2015, after losing the presidential election to Muhammadu Buhari, Jonathan made a historic phone call conceding defeat even before final results were announced.

That single act:

Prevented potential nationwide violence

Strengthened Nigeria’s democratic credibility

Set a precedent for peaceful transitions in Africa

Globally, it was hailed as a rare and commendable move in a region often plagued by electoral disputes.

Today, many analysts argue that this decision alone cemented Jonathan’s place in history as a statesman.

Economic Policies and Growth

During Jonathan’s presidency, Nigeria experienced notable economic expansion.

Key Achievements:

Nigeria became Africa’s largest economy after GDP rebasing in 2014

Growth rates averaged around 6–7% annually

Expansion in telecommunications, banking, and entertainment sectors

Under his administration, industries like Nollywood and fintech gained momentum, laying the groundwork for future innovation.

However, critics pointed out that growth did not sufficiently translate into widespread poverty reduction—a challenge that persists to this day.

Power Sector Reforms

Electricity has long been Nigeria’s Achilles’ heel. Jonathan’s administration made one of the boldest attempts to address it.

Privatisation of Power Sector

Unbundling of the Power Holding Company of Nigeria (PHCN)

Sale of generation and distribution companies to private investors

The goal was to:

Increase efficiency

Attract investment

Improve electricity supply

While results were mixed, many experts agree that these reforms were necessary structural steps that later administrations continue to build upon.

Infrastructure Development

Jonathan’s government initiated and advanced several infrastructure projects:

Railway modernisation (notably Abuja–Kaduna line)

Road rehabilitation projects across major highways

Airport upgrades and remodeling

Early work on the Second Niger Bridge

Though not all projects were completed during his tenure, they laid foundations for subsequent progress.

Agricultural Transformation Agenda

One of Jonathan’s less-publicised successes was in agriculture.

Key Reforms:

Introduction of the e-wallet system for farmers

Reduction of corruption in fertiliser distribution

Support for local food production

Millions of farmers reportedly benefited directly, reducing reliance on middlemen and improving productivity.

This initiative was widely praised by international development organisations.

Education and Social Investment

Jonathan’s administration also made strides in education:

Establishment of 12 new federal universities

Expansion of Almajiri education programmes in the North

Increased access to basic education

These efforts aimed to reduce regional inequality and improve literacy rates.

Security Challenges: The Boko Haram Crisis

No assessment of Jonathan’s presidency is complete without addressing the security situation.

The rise of Boko Haram posed one of the greatest threats to national stability.

Major Issues:

Territorial control by insurgents in the North-East

The kidnapping of the Chibok schoolgirls

Criticism over slow military response

However, toward the end of his tenure:

Nigerian forces, alongside regional allies, regained significant territory

Insurgents were pushed back from major urban centres

While many criticized his handling of the crisis, others argue he inherited a deeply complex and underfunded security system.

Freedom of Speech and Media

One of Jonathan’s strongest democratic credentials was his tolerance for dissent.

During his presidency:

Media operated with relative freedom

Critics openly challenged government policies

Social media activism flourished

Unlike many administrations globally, there were fewer reports of journalists being systematically silenced.

Corruption Allegations and Criticism

Jonathan’s administration was not without controversy.

Critics highlighted:

High-profile corruption scandals

Weak enforcement of anti-corruption measures

Perception of government inefficiency

These issues significantly impacted public perception and contributed to his electoral defeat in 2015.

However, supporters argue that corruption was a systemic issue, not unique to his administration.

Foreign Policy and Global Image

Jonathan maintained strong diplomatic ties and elevated Nigeria’s global profile.

Active role in regional peacekeeping

Engagement with international organisations

Strengthening of ECOWAS relations

His calm demeanor and diplomatic approach earned him respect on the global stage.

A Leadership Style Marked by Humility

Perhaps Jonathan’s most defining trait was his personality.

He was often described as:

Soft-spoken

Accessible

Non-authoritarian

While some saw this as weakness, others now view it as a refreshing contrast to more rigid leadership styles.

Public Reassessment: Why Opinions Are Changing

In recent years, Nigerians have begun to reassess Jonathan’s presidency.

Reasons for This Shift:

Comparative analysis with subsequent administrations

Nostalgia for relative economic stability

Recognition of democratic values and restraint

Long-term impact of his reforms becoming clearer

Social media conversations increasingly highlight statements like:

“We didn’t know what we had until it was gone.”

Voices from the Streets

Across Nigeria, citizens express mixed but increasingly favorable views:

Traders recall better purchasing power

Students remember expanded educational access

Civil society groups praise democratic freedoms

While not universally admired, Jonathan’s image has softened considerably.

Legacy: A Balanced Perspective

So, did Goodluck Jonathan really try?

The answer depends on perspective—but evidence suggests:

Yes, he tried in:

Strengthening democracy

Implementing structural reforms

Maintaining national unity during crises

But faced challenges in:

Combating corruption

Managing security threats

Translating growth into widespread prosperity

Conclusion: A Leader Ahead of His Time?

History often judges leaders more kindly with distance.

For Goodluck Jonathan, time appears to be doing just that.

His presidency, once heavily criticized, is now being viewed with greater nuance—acknowledging both its shortcomings and its achievements.

In a nation as complex as Nigeria, leadership is never simple. Yet, in the final analysis, one sentiment continues to resonate louder than ever:

He may not have been perfect—but he tried.