Goodluck Jonathan is a Nigerian politician who served as the President of Nigeria from 2010 to 2015. He was born on November 20, 1957, in Otuoke, Bayelsa State, Nigeria. Jonathan was the first president from the Niger Delta region and was known for his humble beginnings and his commitment to democracy and good governance.
Early Life and Education
Jonathan grew up in a small village in Bayelsa State, where he attended local schools. He later attended the University of Port Harcourt, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Zoology, a Master of Science degree in Hydrobiology and Fisheries Biology, and a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Zoology.
Career
Jonathan began his political career in 1999 when he was elected as the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State. He later became the Governor of the state in 2005 and served in that capacity until 2007 when he was selected as the Vice President of Nigeria. In 2010, he became the President of Nigeria following the death of President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua.
During his presidency, Jonathan implemented several policies aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. He launched the YouWin program, which provided funding and support for young entrepreneurs, and the Subsidy Reinvestment and Empowerment Program (SURE-P), which aimed to reduce poverty and create jobs. He also oversaw the privatization of several state-owned enterprises and initiated reforms in the power sector to improve electricity supply in the country.
Political Records and Reputations
Jonathan’s presidency was marked by several achievements, including the peaceful conduct of the 2011 presidential election, which was widely regarded as free and fair. He also signed the Freedom of Information Act into law, which gave Nigerians the right to access information held by public institutions.
However, his presidency was also marred by several controversies, including allegations of corruption and mismanagement of the country’s resources. His handling of the Boko Haram insurgency in the northeast of the country was also criticized, with many accusing him of not doing enough to address the issue.
Personal Life
Jonathan is married to Dame Patience Jonathan, and they have two children. He is a devout Christian and is known for his humility and simple lifestyle.
Net Worth
Goodluck Jonathan’s net worth is estimated to be around $100 million. In Nigerian Naira, his net worth is approximately ₦36 billion. In Canadian dollars, his net worth is approximately CAD 130 million, while in Ghanaian cedi, it is approximately GHS 580 million. In Kenyan shillings, his net worth is approximately KES 8.7 billion, while in South African rand, it is approximately ZAR 1.4 billion. In Ugandan shillings, his net worth is approximately UGX 370 billion, while in Indian rupees, it is approximately INR 7.4 billion.
Nominations and Awards
Jonathan has received several awards and nominations throughout his career, including the African Leadership Award in 2013 and the Martin Luther King Jr. Award for Peace and Social Justice in 2015. He was also nominated for the Nobel Peace Prize in 2014 for his efforts to promote democracy and peace in Nigeria.
Social Media Accounts
You can follow Goodluck Jonathan on his social media accounts:
Conclusion
Goodluck Jonathan is a respected Nigerian politician who served his country with distinction as the President of Nigeria. Despite the controversies that surrounded his presidency, he remains a symbol of hope for many Nigerians who believe in democracy and good governance.