Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerian politicians to prioritise national interest over party loyalty and sectional considerations, declaring that the country is greater than any political party or individual.
Jonathan made the call on Tuesday at the fifth National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria in Abuja.
Represented by a former Adamawa State Deputy Governor, Bala Ngilari, the former President identified ethnic, religious and regional divisions as major obstacles to Nigeria’s political development.
He called for national unity, stronger democratic institutions and a renewed commitment to good governance, stressing the need for politics driven by competence, integrity, inclusion and national interest.
Jonathan, who served as deputy governor and governor of Bayelsa State before becoming vice-president and president, said his experience in public office had taught him the importance of consultation, teamwork and institutional strength.
He urged former deputy governors to foster cordial relationships between serving governors and their deputies, mentor younger politicians and discourage divisive political practices.
The former President also emphasised that political office was temporary, but decisions made by public office holders could shape generations.
He therefore called on former public officials to guide emerging leaders towards integrity, accountability and responsible leadership in the interest of national development.
