President Bola Tinubu has praised former President Goodluck Jonathan as a guardian of democracy whose influence extends well beyond his time in office.

Mr Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, gave the commendation on Thursday at a dinner marking the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s 10th anniversary in Abuja.

He described Mr Jonathan as a powerful lesson in life after public service, noting that he safeguarded Nigeria’s democracy at a critical moment.

Mr Tinubu said Mr Jonathan’s decision to establish the foundation shows that life continues after leaving high public office.

He added that there are not enough words to convey the country’s gratitude, saying Mr Jonathan has upheld national values since leaving office.

Mr Tinubu contrasted leaders who use post-office influence destructively with those who commit themselves to humanity’s service.

He said some leaders choose narrow interests that can damage the society that once supported them.

He added that others choose a nobler path by devoting their lives to serving humanity.

Mr Tinubu noted that democracy in West Africa and globally has faced severe threats over the past decade.

He said democracy has been weakened by adventurists and extremists who treat institutions as inconveniences and elections as mere formalities.

Mr Tinubu stressed that Mr Jonathan proved that no ambition should override the sovereignty of the state.

He urged national unity and respect for democratic processes, calling on citizens to accept electoral outcomes peacefully.

He said democracy depends on respecting the choices of others, as mandates can always be renewed.

Mr Tinubu described the foundation as a model, stressing that service continues after leaving office.

He said governments succeed only with citizens’ cooperation, and citizens progress with leadership that listens.

Mr Tinubu added that Nigeria’s democracy endures because of individuals like Mr Jonathan who place the nation above personal ambition.

He congratulated Mr Jonathan and his team, expressing hope that the foundation will continue guiding Africa towards peace and prosperity.

Responding, Mr Jonathan thanked Mr Shettima, former president Ernest Koroma of Sierra Leone and other dignitaries for honouring the event.

He said the foundation’s focus was shaped by his experiences and challenges while leading Nigeria.

Mr Jonathan said the foundation has consistently worked on diplomacy, good governance, election management and strengthening democratic institutions.

He offered condolences over recent abductions and attacks affecting citizens across the country.

He urged political leaders to act responsibly in addressing the security and welfare challenges facing Nigerians.

Guest speaker, Mohammed Ibn Chambas, highlighted the importance of functional democracy and said young people must remain central to all reforms.

He stressed that Africa’s future depends on strong democratic institutions, youth empowerment, a free press and an independent judiciary.

Mr Chambas praised Mr Jonathan’s leadership, describing him as a believer in genuine democracy who values the sanctity of human life.

 (NAN)