Former President Goodluck Jonathan has described his political ascent from deputy governor to Nigeria’s president within four years as “a political miracle,” attributing it to divine intervention.
Speaking at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA), Lagos, during the public presentation of three books authored by journalist and his former spokesperson, Dr. Reuben Abati, Jonathan said: “My political journey looked like a political miracle. From deputy governor to becoming president of this country within four years it was a miracle. It’s only God that made it possible.”
He commended Abati for his intellectual depth and for documenting his experiences in government, noting that such works enrich Nigeria’s political and historical record.
The event, chaired by former President Olusegun Obasanjo, featured glowing tributes from dignitaries. Obasanjo praised Abati for his transformation from journalist and commentator to political aide and now author, stressing the importance of truth as a foundation for success.
Book reviewer Louis Odion described the three titles Portraits: People, Politics and Society (642 pages), How Goodluck Jonathan Became President (285 pages), and A Love Letter and Other Stories (402 pages) as insightful reflections on Nigeria’s political evolution and resilience.
Abati expressed gratitude to his mentors and colleagues, hinting at plans to publish more works detailing the Jonathan presidency.
The event also featured a keynote address by the Catholic Bishop of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah, and was attended by several dignitaries, including Abia State governor Alex Otti, Lagos deputy governor Obafemi Hamzat, EFCC chairman Ola Olukoyede, 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 icon Biodun Shobanjo, and sports administrator Amaju Pinnick.
Abati’s wife, Kikelomo, led family members to support him at the colourful ceremony.
