Group Calls on Tinubu to Back Jonathan for UN Secretary-General Role

The African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC) has called on President Bola Tinubu to endorse former President Goodluck Jonathan as Nigeria’s candidate for the office of Secretary-General of the United Nations.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its Convener, Prof. Edward Agbai, the organisation described Jonathan as a statesman whose leadership experience, democratic credentials and diplomatic engagements make him well suited for the world’s top multilateral position.

According to the consortium, the United Nations requires a leader with extensive executive experience, a commitment to democratic principles and the ability to navigate complex international challenges.

Agbai noted that Jonathan’s service as Nigeria’s Vice President between 2007 and 2010 and President from 2010 to 2015 provided him with valuable experience in governance and international relations.

The group also highlighted Jonathan’s decision to concede defeat after the 2015 presidential election, describing it as a defining moment for Nigeria’s democracy and a demonstration of his respect for constitutional governance and political stability.

It added that since leaving office, the former president has remained actively involved in promoting peace, democracy and conflict resolution across Africa through election observation and mediation assignments.

According to APRC, Jonathan has participated in peace and democratic initiatives under the auspices of the African Union (AU), the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), and the West African Elders Forum.

The consortium said his approach to resolving political disputes through dialogue, consultation and consensus-building has earned him international recognition and reflects the qualities expected of a United Nations Secretary-General.

It further argued that Jonathan’s experience leading Africa’s most populous nation has equipped him with a broad understanding of global issues, including sustainable development, security, governance and climate-related challenges.

APRC also maintained that supporting an African candidate for the position would enhance the continent’s voice in global governance and strengthen Africa’s representation within the international system.

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The organisation urged the Federal Government to begin diplomatic consultations with African countries and other international partners to build support for Jonathan’s potential candidacy.

While acknowledging that securing the UN’s top office requires broad international consensus, the consortium said every successful campaign begins with presenting a credible and widely respected candidate.

It concluded that Jonathan’s record in democratic leadership, regional diplomacy and peacebuilding makes him a strong contender for the position and called on President Tinubu to champion his nomination as part of Nigeria’s contribution to greater African representation in global institutions.