Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged Nigerian politicians to prioritise national unity and the country's collective interests above political party loyalty, ethnic affiliations and sectional considerations.
Jonathan warned that persistent ethnic, religious and regional divisions remain major obstacles to Nigeria's political development and democratic progress.
The former president delivered the message on Tuesday during the fifth National Conference of the Forum of Former Deputy Governors of Nigeria, held in Abuja.
Represented by former Adamawa State Deputy Governor Bala Ngilari, Jonathan stressed the importance of strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive governance and ensuring that political decisions serve the interests of all Nigerians.
Jonathan Warns Against Divisive Politics
Speaking at the conference, Jonathan expressed concern over the growing influence of ethnic and religious sentiments in Nigeria's political system.
He called on political leaders to embrace competence, integrity and inclusion rather than allowing sectional interests to determine their decisions.
According to the former president, national development can only be achieved when political actors recognise the importance of unity and collective responsibility.
"One major obstacle to Nigeria’s political development is division along ethnic, religious and regional lines. We must rise above these differences and promote politics founded on competence, integrity, inclusion and national interest," Jonathan said.
He further declared:
"Nigeria must always be greater than any political party, individual or sectional interest."
The former president emphasised that political competition should not undermine the country's unity or weaken its democratic institutions.
Jonathan Sends Message to Former Deputy Governors
Drawing from his political experience as a former deputy governor and governor of Bayelsa State before becoming Nigeria's vice-president and president, Jonathan highlighted the importance of consultation, teamwork and institutional stability.
He urged former deputy governors to maintain cordial relationships with serving governors and other political office holders.
Jonathan also encouraged them to mentor younger politicians and discourage practices capable of creating unnecessary political divisions.
He reminded former public office holders that political appointments and elected positions are temporary, but decisions made while in office can have lasting consequences for future generations.
The former president called on experienced political leaders to guide emerging politicians in the areas of accountability, integrity, responsible leadership and public service.
Jonathan Expresses Confidence in Nigerian Youths
Despite the challenges confronting the country, Jonathan expressed optimism about Nigeria's future.
He identified the resilience, creativity and determination of Nigerians, particularly young people, as important strengths that could drive national development.
However, he stressed that the government and political leaders must create an enabling environment where young Nigerians can work, innovate and prosper.
Jonathan maintained that providing opportunities for the younger generation would help strengthen the country's democratic and economic future.
Ganduje Calls for National Unity, Stronger Institutions
Also speaking at the conference, former Kano State Governor and immediate past National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), Abdullahi Ganduje, urged Nigerians to embrace the country's diversity and strengthen their sense of national identity.
Ganduje traced some of Nigeria's challenges with national integration to its colonial history and the political developments that followed independence.
He acknowledged the contributions of First Republic political leaders to Nigeria's independence struggle but observed that ethnic considerations later became influential in party politics.
According to him, Nigerians must learn from the country's political history and transform their diversity into a source of strength rather than division.
The former Kano governor also raised concerns about the effectiveness of democratic institutions, particularly the judiciary, and questioned how meaningful reforms could be achieved.
Ganduje Criticises Abandonment of Projects by Successive Governments
Ganduje further expressed concern over the lack of continuity in government policies and development projects across Nigeria.
He observed that disagreements between outgoing and incoming governors often resulted in the abandonment, suspension or reversal of projects initiated by previous administrations.
According to him, such situations sometimes occur even when both governors belong to the same political party.
He warned that the practice could undermine development and prevent citizens from enjoying the benefits of public investments.
Ganduje also called for greater recognition of the roles played by deputy governors in governance.
He argued that deputy governors should be regarded as important partners in administration rather than merely substitutes for governors.
Okowa Raises Concern Over Declining Public Trust
Meanwhile, former Delta State Governor Ifeanyi Okowa expressed concern over what he described as a growing disconnect between government policies and the everyday experiences of Nigerians.
Okowa said the situation had contributed to declining public confidence in governance and democratic institutions.
He maintained that meaningful nation-building requires a strong social contract built on accountability, inclusion and shared responsibility.
According to him, many Nigerians feel disconnected from the political system because their expectations and aspirations are not being adequately addressed.
The former governor emphasised the need for leaders to ensure that government policies reflect the realities and needs of ordinary citizens.
The conference brought renewed attention to discussions about national unity, responsible leadership, democratic development and the need for stronger cooperation among political leaders.
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