Dr. Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan GCFR (born 1957) served as Nigeria's president from 2010-2015. Born in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Jonathan studied zoology and became a lecturer before entering politics. As vice president, he assumed the presidency following Umaru Yar'Adua's death in 2010, then won the 2011 election. His administration focused on transforming agriculture, power, and education. The most defining moment came in 2015 when he conceded defeat to Muhammadu Buhari before final results were announced—an unprecedented act in Nigerian politics that prevented potential violence. This peaceful transfer of power earned international praise and set a democratic precedent for Africa. Jonathan's post-presidency work includes mediating elections across Africa. His humility and commitment to democracy over personal power cemented his legacy beyond policy achievements.


DEMOCRATIC STATESMAN:
Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan steered Nigeria through post-military consolidation, emphasising electoral reforms, agricultural transformation, and education (establishing 12 federal universities in underserved states).

ECONOMIC INITIATIVES:
His administration launched the Youth Enterprise with Innovation in Nigeria (YOUWIN) programme, earmarked funds for power-sector privatisation, and negotiated the rebasing of Nigeria’s GDP, confirming it as Africa’s largest economy in 2014.

HISTORIC CONCESSION:
Jonathan’s immediate acceptance of the 2015 election results and congratulatory call to Muhammadu Buhari prevented potential violence, setting a democratic precedent applauded globally.

CONTINENTAL MEDIATOR:
Post-presidency, Jonathan chairs the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, leads African Union/ECOWAS election observation missions, and mediates in Mali, Sierra Leone, and South Sudan.

FAST FACTS:
- Born 20 November 1957 in Otuoke, Bayelsa State.
- Education: PhD in Zoology (University of Port Harcourt).
- Positions: Deputy Governor, Governor of Bayelsa State; Vice President; President (2010-2015).
- Motto: “My ambition is not worth the blood of any Nigerian.”