Jonathan Atiku presidency criticism response as former president defends his record and rejects claims of inexperience in office
Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Monday in Abuja responded firmly to criticism from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, rejecting claims that he lacked the experience to govern Nigeria effectively.
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Goodluck Jonathan spoke at the 2025 Association of Retired Career Ambassadors of Nigeria (ARCAN) awards ceremony, where he defended his time in office without directly naming Atiku Abubakar but clearly addressing the remarks attributed to him.
The Jonathan Atiku presidency criticism exchange stems from recent comments in which Atiku Abubakar described Jonathan as inexperienced and linked that to perceived shortcomings during his administration.
Goodluck Jonathan said that while no leader is without mistakes, his administration made its best effort in managing the affairs of the country between 2010 and 2015.
He questioned the argument around inexperience, noting that he assumed office at the age of 53 and left at 58, stressing that leadership cannot be measured solely by age or duration in office.
Jonathan also pointed to what he described as notable diplomatic achievements during his tenure, including Nigeria’s election to the United Nations Security Council.
He added that such milestones would not have been possible if his administration had been as ineffective as critics suggest.
Atiku Abubakar, who is currently seeking the African Democratic Congress presidential ticket ahead of the 2027 elections, has also made broader comments about the political influence of other aspirants, including Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi.
Jonathan, however, used his address to emphasise the importance of political stability in West Africa, warning that instability continues to undermine economic development across the region.
He noted that regional bodies such as ECOWAS face complex challenges balancing democratic intervention with respect for national sovereignty.
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The remarks underscore renewed political debate among Nigeria’s leading figures as attention gradually shifts toward the 2027 general elections.
