Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been recognised as an emblem of democracy by President Bola Tinubu.
President Tinubu, in a statement issued by Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, congratulated the former president on his 66th birthday and praised him for his “distinguished achievement as a leader, who gave Nigeria and Africa a pride of place in democratic lore by upending the vitiating paradigm of those who seek to hold onto power by any means.”
President Tinubu said he shares in the joyous occasion with “one of our icons of democracy, whose humility continues to inspire hope for good governance in the country and on the continent.”
The President said he believes the former President possesses a distinguished profile on leadership, rising up the ladder as Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice-President and President, and now championing the cause of peace in Africa by bringing together and counselling leaders on harmonious co-existence for the benefit of the people they serve.
The President commended former President Jonathan for committing himself to the service of humanity and to strengthening democratic institutions, exemplified by his relentless peace missions and advocacy of non-violence in the peaceful transition of power across the African continent.
As the former President clocks 66, President Tinubu affirmed that his wisdom, foresight, and patriotism will continue to set an example for leaders aspiring to make a difference in Nigeria and beyond.
The President prayed that God Almighty will continually sustain the former President and his wife, Patience, in good health and strength.