Endurance is not enough - Jonathan

By Ejire Folakunmi

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called for a strategic alignment between democratic governance and sound economic policies to ensure the long-term sustainability of Nigeria’s political system.

The former president made the call on Thursday in Abuja during the national convening and launch of a research report by the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF). The report is titled: “Strengthening the Nexus between Democracy and Economic Growth in Nigeria.”

Jonathan urged policymakers to look beyond the conduct of elections and focus instead on building transparent, accountable institutions that foster innovation and enterprise. He noted that the gathering comes at a critical time when global democracy is under strain due to economic hardship, social pressures, insecurity, and a growing distrust in public institutions.

Reflecting on the effectiveness of various systems of government, Jonathan pointed out that while some non-democratic nations have achieved significant development, the unique value of democracy lies in the guarantee of freedom and justice.

“Most of you go to Dubai, the center of the world… it’s not a democracy there,” he noted, while also citing the recruitment process in China as a model of quality. “In China, they combine selection and election; before you become a mayor, you are filtered and you are one of the best. Can we truly say that our democracy is close to that?”

He warned that when freedom and justice are removed, a state can no longer be considered democratic. Furthermore, he cautioned that democratic systems risk losing legitimacy if they fail to deliver tangible economic progress.

“Our democracy has endured, but endurance alone is not enough,” Jonathan stated. “Effective policies that promote economic growth are crucial to making our democracy more sustainable. History will not judge us merely by the systems we uphold, but by the outcomes we deliver.”

The former president concluded by urging the private sector, civil society, and policymakers to act on the report's findings with urgency, building a Nigeria where democracy is defined by opportunity, prosperity, and justice for all.