Former President Goodluck Jonathan has warned that poor governance and judicial corruption are damaging Nigeria’s reputation and discouraging investment.
Speaking at the Haske Satumari Foundation’s annual colloquium in Abuja, he criticized the country’s political leaders. He argued that decisions made by the executive, legislature, and judiciary shape Nigeria’s global image.
Investors Avoid Corrupt Systems
Jonathan stressed that businesses will not invest in a nation where politicians control the courts.
“No serious investor will bring their money into a country where the judiciary is compromised, where government officials can dictate court judgments,” he said.
Addressing the crisis in Rivers State, he referenced an Indian proverb:
“If someone is truly asleep, you can wake them up. But if someone is pretending to be asleep, waking them up becomes impossible. In Nigeria today, key actors, from the executive to the legislature and judiciary, know the right course of action, yet they refuse to take it.”
Governance Failures Hurt Nigeria’s Reputation
Jonathan said governance failures, not just cybercrime, are damaging Nigeria’s global image.
“Many blame our reputation on fraudsters like ‘Yahoo boys’ or the 419 scam. While these play a role, they are not the only problem. If we want a nation where our children and grandchildren can thrive, we must make sacrifices. Doing the right thing has a cost, but we must be willing to pay it,” he said.
He warned that power abuse across all branches of government has long-term consequences. Leaders, he urged, must consider how their actions affect the future.
Jonathan Stays Neutral on Rivers Crisis
Jonathan refused to comment on calls for a state of emergency in Rivers State.
“People expect former presidents to speak on their successors’ decisions. However, former leaders rarely do so because such comments can create tensions. This is a global practice, look at the United States. Their ex-presidents hardly ever comment on current governance,” he said.
Calls for Inclusion and Equity
Kudla Satumari, founder of the Haske Satumari Foundation, stressed that equity is key to national development. He noted that every Nigerian faces some form of marginalization.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State, represented by Plateau State University’s Acting Vice-Chancellor, Shedrach Best, agreed. He said inclusive governance is essential.
“The role of good governance is to promote inclusion, equity, and diversity. Plateau’s experience offers lessons for Nigeria in managing diversity. There were times we failed, and it led to conflict,” he said.
Mutfwang invited Nigerians to visit Plateau, highlighting its natural beauty and economic potential. He noted that while the state lacks oil, it has tin and other valuable minerals.
Kenyan Senator Crystal Asige, in her keynote address, spoke about barriers preventing persons with disabilities (PWDs) from fully participating in society.
“Despite laws promoting inclusion, weak enforcement keeps PWDs marginalized in politics, jobs, education, healthcare, and social protection,” she said.
She urged political parties to integrate disability issues into mainstream governance rather than sidelining them.
The Path Forward
Jonathan’s remarks highlight Nigeria’s urgent need for reforms. Stronger governance, judicial integrity, and inclusive policies are essential. Without them, Nigeria risks losing both investor confidence and its global standing.
