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By Edward Chizea Nwosisi
Cover of Time Magazine's 100 Most Influential People In the World
President Goodluck Jonathan may not be as popular at home as he is in the international community, but popularity which is hard to earn in a nation such as Nigeria, doesn’t necessarily reflect resolve and purpose. President Jonathan through his policies and actions has earned from the international community the reputation of a leader with purpose and on a mission. This quality hopefully, would trickle down back home for Nigerians to see especially when transformative and developmental results become evident. While I don’t share the view of his political opponents that President Jonathan is weak and directionless, I cannot help but wonder as do most Nigerians when the yields of the much talked about transformation would materialize. As Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia, points out in her citation for President Jonathan after being named among Time’s the 100 most influential people in the world, there is room for far much more to be done. “Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan exemplifies the African political renaissance at a time when the people of the continent are starting to reap the fruit of their resources and their hard work. President Jonathan, 54, possesses the qualities needed at this moment of great challenges, having come to power at a crucial moment in the history of Nigeria. The country has grown out of its past of corruption, mismanagement and brutality, but the foundation of good governance is still fragile. In two short years, President Jonathan has shown the same dexterity he demonstrated as governor of Bayelsa, the same ability to find the remedies to the many complexities of running a nascent democracy. He has spearheaded the fight against corruption and turned Nigeria into an example of good governance. He has also made a significant impact on consolidating peace and security in West Africa. From the onset of our own crisis, Liberia has benefitted from the support of Nigeria. President Jonathan not only upheld the trend but added to it. With leaders like President Jonathan, Africa is sure to move toward prosperity, freedom and dignity for all of its people” 160 million Nigeria wearied from the disappointment of failed past promises might meet President Jonathan’s government policies with cynicism and skepticism this however, doesn’t not erase their hope in the country’s future. Nigeria would be great someday, the question is would President Jonathan be the one to lead us to greatness.
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This article was first published on 20th April 2012

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