Jonathan Advocates Integrity and Merit in Leadership

Former President Goodluck Jonathan spoke on Tuesday at an event celebrating the retirement of Didi Walson-Jack, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation. He stressed the need for integrity and merit in leadership appointments, arguing that no nation can progress when competence is overlooked for personal relationships.

Jonathan commended President Bola Tinubu for appointing Walson-Jack, noting her as the first Bayelsan to hold the position, which is based on merit rather than rotation. He reflected on Singapore's transformation under Lee Kuan Yew, highlighting integrity and meritocracy as essential governance principles.

Jonathan warned against assigning roles to individuals lacking the necessary competence, using a biological analogy to illustrate the importance of matching responsibilities to capabilities. He recounted Walson-Jack's career journey, acknowledging her perseverance and the significance of her appointment despite initial setbacks.