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Jonathan Replies Atiku, Defends Presidency Over ‘Inexperience’ Claim

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April 21, 2026

Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has said that Nigeria can triumph over its pressing challenges. Jonathan made this statement in his congratulatory message to Nigerians on the nation's 64th Independence Day event on October 1, 2024. In a message shared on his social media platform (X), Jonathan acknowledged the financial struggles that Nigerians are experiencing following the removal of fuel subsidies by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. A large number of individuals have been protesting on the streets nationwide in a peaceful manner to voice their concerns over the state of the nation. Addressing the problems of poverty, hunger, and various social and political issues impacting the nation, Jonathan promised Nigerians that there is hope on the horizon. “As we mark this important day, I encourage Nigerians to remain optimistic, resilient, and committed to our nation’s greatness despite the odds. With a common purpose, zeal, and love for one another, we can overcome our challenges and build a prosperous nation where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive,” the former President noted. Below is Jonathan's Independence Day message to Nigerians. "Today, we mark a significant milestone in our nation’s history—the 64th anniversary of Nigeria’s independence. This is a time to remember and honor the nationalists who fought to end colonial rule. Since 1960, we have made measured strides in various sectors, overcoming countless obstacles in our journey of nationhood. We have seen sustained democracy in this Fourth Republic for 25 years, following the end of military rule in 1999. Our economy has shown perceptible growth, and we have continued to sustain our unity and belief in the social fabric of our nation. However, we still face significant challenges that test our resolve and resilience as a people. These challenges include our inability to meet our goals regarding security, economic growth, national cohesion, and infrastructure development. To deepen our democracy and foster inclusive economic growth, we must strengthen our institutions and develop a democratic culture that supports peaceful, transparent, free, and fair elections. This is the foundation of good governance, sustainable democracy, national unity, and peaceful coexistence. As a nation, we must recommit to the principles of justice, equity, and inclusion. We should harness our diversity, tap into the potential of our youth, and leverage our natural resources for the benefit of all. As we commemorate this important day, I encourage Nigerians to remain optimistic, resilient, and committed to our nation’s greatness despite the odds. With a common purpose, zeal, and love for one another, we can overcome our challenges and build a prosperous nation where every citizen has equal opportunities to thrive."

Former President, Goodluck Jonathan, has responded to recent remarks by former Vice-President, Atiku Abubakar, who described him as a “decent” but “inexperienced” leader.
Atiku, a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, had made the comment during an interview on Arise TV, where he linked some of the challenges experienced during Jonathan’s administration to what he termed inadequate leadership preparation.

Reacting on Monday at the 2025 awards ceremony of the Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria in Abuja, Jonathan did not mention Atiku by name but appeared to address the criticism.
The former President pushed back against the suggestion that age or experience alone determines leadership competence.
He said, “So not too long ago, a very senior politician said Jonathan was too young and that was why he made mistakes.”

Jonathan acknowledged that errors are inevitable in leadership, stressing that no individual in high office is immune from making decisions that may later be questioned.
“If I made mistakes, yes nobody who becomes a governor or President will say they did not make mistakes. All human beings must make mistakes,” he stated.
He added pointedly, “Must I be 100 years before I run the affairs of the state?”

Continuing his defence, Jonathan argued that his political journey and the circumstances that brought him to power demonstrated his capability.
“If I were so naive, I don’t think I would have been able to navigate that process,” he said.

Jonathan assumed office as Nigeria’s President following the death of former President, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, a transition widely regarded as one of the most delicate periods in the country’s democratic history.

The exchange between the two political heavyweights has since stirred fresh debate over leadership, experience, and accountability in Nigeria’s governance space.