Former President Goodluck Jonathan on Friday described his ascent from deputy governor to president of Nigeria within four years as “a political miracle,” attributing his rapid rise to divine intervention.
Jonathan made the remarks at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, during the public presentation of three books authored by his former spokesperson and journalist, Dr. Reuben Abati. He praised Abati for documenting government experiences that enrich Nigeria’s political and historical record.
The event was chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who lauded Abati’s evolution from journalist and commentator to political aide, politician, and author. Obasanjo emphasized truth as a cornerstone for both personal and national success, noting, “The truth that I stood for at that time, you have now come to stand for. I am happy that in my lifetime, I can say I have a son in Reuben Abati who has matured, who has understood, who has progressed, and who is now on the path of success.”
Book reviewer Louis Odion described the works—Portraits: People, Politics and Society, How Goodluck Jonathan Became President, and A Love Letter and Other Stories—as compelling reflections on Nigeria’s political evolution, its challenges, and its potential for unity.
Abati, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to his mentors and colleagues and promised more revealing publications on the Jonathan presidency in the future.
The ceremony featured a keynote address by Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, and drew prominent dignitaries, including Abia State Governor Alex Otti, Lagos State Deputy Governor Obafemi Hamzat, EFCC Chairman Ola Olukoyede, the Alake of Egbaland, Oba Adedotun Gbadebo, and former governors Segun Osoba, Gbenga Daniel, and Adams Oshiomhole.
Other notable attendees included Access Holdings Chairman Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, The Guardian publisher Lady Maiden Alex-Ibru, ThisDay publisher Nduka Obaigbena, advertising mogul Biodun Shobanjo, and sports administrator Amaju Pinnick. Abati’s wife, Kikelomo Abati, led family members in attendance at the colourful event.
The gathering celebrated both Jonathan’s political journey and Abati’s contributions to Nigeria’s political discourse through his writing.
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