The African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to nominate former President Goodluck Jonathan for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations (UN).
In a statement issued on Thursday, the group’s convener, Prof. Edward Agbai, said Jonathan possesses the leadership experience, diplomatic expertise and democratic credentials needed to lead the global organisation.
According to Agbai, the United Nations requires a leader with proven executive experience who can effectively manage today’s complex international challenges.
“The United Nations needs a leader with proven executive experience, democratic credentials, and the ability to manage complex global challenges,” he said.
The consortium pointed to Jonathan’s tenure as Nigeria’s Vice President (2007–2010) and President (2010–2015), describing his time in office as evidence of responsible and inclusive leadership.
APRC also praised Jonathan’s decision to concede defeat in the 2015 presidential election, describing it as one of the defining moments in Nigeria’s democratic history.
According to the group, the peaceful transfer of power strengthened democracy in Nigeria and demonstrated Jonathan’s commitment to constitutional governance and national stability.
The consortium further noted that since leaving office, Jonathan has remained active in promoting democracy, peacebuilding and conflict resolution across Africa through election observation and mediation missions under organisations such as the African Union (AU), ECOWAS, COMESA, IGAD and the West African Elders Forum.
The group said Jonathan’s leadership style, which emphasises dialogue, consultation and consensus-building, has earned him international respect.
It added that these qualities are essential for a United Nations Secretary-General, whose responsibilities include resolving global conflicts and promoting international cooperation.
APRC also argued that Jonathan’s experience governing Nigeria—a country with diverse ethnic, religious and cultural backgrounds—has given him a deep understanding of global development, security and environmental challenges.
The consortium further maintained that having an African as the next UN Secretary-General would strengthen the continent’s influence in global decision-making.
It therefore urged the Federal Government to begin diplomatic consultations with African nations and other international partners to build support for Jonathan’s possible candidacy.
While acknowledging that the position requires broad international backing, APRC stressed that every successful campaign begins with presenting a credible and qualified candidate.
The group concluded that Jonathan’s record in democratic leadership, regional diplomacy and peaceful conflict resolution makes him a strong contender for the UN’s top diplomatic office and called on President Tinubu to support his nomination.
Source: Statement by the African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC).
