Former President Goodluck Jonathan has urged African nations to embrace a new generation of leaders, calling on countries to prioritize those aged 25 to 50, whom he described as better suited—both physically and mentally—for the demands of modern governance. Speaking on Thursday in Abuja at the International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference commemorating 50 years since the assassination of former Head of State General Murtala Ramat Muhammed, Jonathan stressed that age should not be a barrier to leadership. Reflecting on his own time in office, he recalled enduring days with barely two hours of sleep, highlighting how advanced age can limit a leader’s ability to cope with such pressures. “Why do we begin to think that you must be a hundred years old before you can rule your country?” he asked, emphasizing that younger leaders are more resilient and able to handle intense workloads. He cited the “Not Too Young To Run” movement in Nigeria, which aims to lower age restrictions for elective offices, as a model for encouraging youth participation in politics. “If we are looking for people who can run nations in Africa, we should look within the 25 to 50 age bracket. That is when you are vibrant, physically strong, and mentally sound,” Jonathan said. Jonathan also criticized public office holders who spend large portions of their time away from their duties. “In countries like the United States, some governors do not leave their states for four years. Yet here, some governors spend half their time abroad. Who then manages the state? Why would we not face security challenges? True maturity requires discipline, first and foremost,” he said. Highlighting the legacy of General Murtala Muhammed, Jonathan pointed out that decisive leadership is not about age. Muhammed became Head of State at 38 and, in just 200 days, made a lasting impact. “General Murtala Muhammed assumed office at 38. Despite his short tenure, his achievements were profound because he had a clear, unwavering vision. Leadership must serve the national interest, not personal ambition,” Jonathan said. He also recalled General Yakubu Gowon, who became Head of State at 32 and introduced the National Youth Service Corps, which continues to operate today. “A young man of 32 managed to lead the country through the civil war. Why do we now insist leadership comes only with old age?” he asked. Jonathan warned that youth alone is insufficient for effective governance without discipline, patriotism, and strong institutions. He stressed that democracy relies on systems and structures, not just individuals. “Democracy requires vision rather than decree. It relies on persuasion over command. It depends on institutions, not individuals. Above all, it requires respect for the rule of law and submission to the will of the people,” he said. He encouraged young people to view leadership as service, and leaders to see governance as stewardship. “Leadership is not entitlement. Young people must see it as service, and leaders must see governance as stewardship,” Jonathan said, recalling the age barriers he faced when contesting for deputy governor. He concluded by urging leaders to focus on the impact of their governance rather than the length of their tenure. “Leadership is measured by the courage to act decisively and the difference you make in society, not how long you hold office. While military leaders govern by command, democracy requires strong institutions, credible elections, an independent judiciary, and accountable governance,” he said. Jonathan emphasized that while General Murtala Muhammed exemplified decisive leadership, Africa’s democratic future depends on building and respecting institutions. “Democracy depends on vision, persuasion, institutions, and the rule of law. It demands restraint and accountability,” he added.
