Former President Goodluck Jonathan was on Tuesday installed as the Jigon Bauchi by the Bauchi Emirate Council in recognition of his contributions to democracy, peace and national unity in Nigeria.
The title was conferred by the Emir of Bauchi, Dr Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, during a colourful turbaning ceremony held at the Emir’s Palace in Bauchi.
Bauchi State Governor Bala Mohammed led a high-powered delegation of government officials, political associates and other dignitaries to the palace for the event, where the former president was formally invested with the title.
Speaking at the ceremony, Mohammed thanked the Emir for honouring Jonathan, saying the recognition reflected the former president’s enduring role in promoting democratic governance and peaceful coexistence across the country.
He said Jonathan’s leadership and commitment to national stability had earned him respect beyond political and regional boundaries.
In his remarks, Jonathan expressed gratitude to the Emir and the people of Bauchi State for the honour, describing the title as a privilege he would cherish.
“I deeply appreciate this honour and the confidence reposed in me by the Bauchi Emirate. I will respect the customs and traditions of the Emirate Council and uphold the values associated with this title,” he said.
The Emir, while conferring the title, described Jonathan as a leader whose conduct in public office and dedication to peace had remained exemplary.
The ceremony drew a large gathering of traditional rulers, title holders, government officials, political leaders and other invited guests from within and outside Bauchi State.