No wonder his campaign was said
to be the most direct attempt by any Nigerian leader to rally the support of the public. It was also the most inclusive campaign ever organised by any Nigerian leader. Many say his focus on important
issues during the campaign was a welcome change from the apathy with which previous presidents had treated the same issues. Since coming into office aſter the
death of his former boss, President Umaru Yar’Adua, Jonathan has worked to improve the nation’s economy and kept fuel shortages and price fluctuations under control through a combination of improved production and better supply structures. He has addressed social problems
such as the Niger Delta crisis, and removed other regulatory measures that had impeded the petroleum sector for years. Te effects of these changes are seen in an improved investment climate and global confidence in Nigeria. Beyond Nigerian shores, Jonathan’s
commitment to the promotion of a regional framework for economic growth has no doubt been impressive. However, his focus on the entrenchment of democratic principles in the Ecowas region has been his most admired endeavour so far. Tough there were allegations that
“Jonathan’s ascension to the highest office marks the
first time a member of a minority group from the oil- producing Niger Delta has emerged as the country’s leader.”
from the oil-producing Niger Delta has emerged as the country’s leader. A month aſter his selection as the
party candidate, Jonathan’s campaign made a stop at all the key state capitals in the six geopolitical zones of the country. He embarked on a major publicity drive that won the hearts and
minds of most Nigerians. What was most surprising was the
fact that his campaign team’s efforts appeared in complete contrast to the assumed privileges of incumbency; his campaign traversed more communities than any of the opposition candidates did.
he had subtly proposed military action to remove the former Ivorian president, Laurent Gbagbo, his work proved the contrary. For his efforts, the Ecowas leadership, at the conclusion of their 39th Ordinary Session on 24 March, endorsed Nigeria’s continuation as the chair of Ecowas, in a sense honouring Jonathan and endorsing his regional efforts. Nigerians now look forward to a Jonathan era of peace, economic wellbeing and national development. Tey hope he won’t let them down. For the present, however, there is
a general feeling that the economic growth in his short spell as president before the elections will continue; and that the tide of support he currently enjoys will carry on for some time to come.
New African June 2011 | 51
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