Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for a major review of Nigeria’s democratic system, political leadership selection process and public institutions, warning against abandoning the ideals and sacrifices of those who fought for the country’s independence.
He made the call at a colloquium held in Lagos to commemorate the 162nd birth anniversary of nationalist Herbert Macaulay at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA.
Jonathan, who chaired the event themed “Nationalism and Nation Building,” said Nigeria’s founding nationalists wanted more than an end to colonial rule. They fought for a united and prosperous country where everyone would enjoy equal rights, dignity and opportunities.
“They envisioned a sovereign country where Nigerians would determine their own destiny, govern themselves, control their resources and deploy those resources for national development and the welfare of citizens,” he said.
He explained that the struggle for independence was also aimed at achieving economic freedom, industrial growth, quality education, accessible healthcare, job opportunities and social justice.
Jonathan questioned whether Nigeria had achieved the level of development its founding fathers hoped for.
“Have we made the kind of progress they envisioned, and are we satisfied with where Nigeria stands today?” he asked.
Although he acknowledged that the country had recorded progress in different sectors, he said genuine patriotism required Nigerians to recognise and address the challenges holding the nation back.
He listed poor leadership, weak institutions, corruption, inconsistent government policies, inadequate infrastructure, insecurity and excessive dependence on raw material exports among the problems affecting national development.
Also speaking at the event, Chairman of the Herbert Macaulay Colloquium Family Committee, Bode George, described the late nationalist as a special gift to Nigeria and urged current political leaders to follow his example of selfless public service.
George appealed to President Bola Tinubu to return the site of Macaulay’s former residence on Marina to his family so it could be developed into a permanent memorial hall.
He said Macaulay believed that anyone seeking political office should be motivated by the desire to serve the public rather than pursue personal gains.
“When you decide that you want to be a public officer, in other words, you want to go into politics, it is not for yourself. It is a service to the people,” he said.
George explained that the family organised the anniversary events to keep Macaulay’s legacy alive and encourage today's political leaders to learn from the values he upheld.
Nigeria must protect founding fathers’ vision – Former President, Jonathan