Former President Goodluck Jonathan has revealed that he was initially reluctant to become Vice President, citing his deep commitment to peace and service to humanity as his guiding principles. Speaking at a reception in Abuja organized by “Friends of Dr Goodluck Jonathan” to celebrate his recent recognition with the 2025 Sunhak Global Peace Prize Award, Jonathan reflected on his journey in public service.
The former Bayelsa State governor shared that his humble beginnings and early experiences with hardship instilled in him a profound empathy for people and a passion for peace. “I believe that the only way I can serve God is by serving man,” Jonathan said. “That has been my fear, and that was why I was very reluctant when I was approached to come to the centre, to be a vice president.”
He noted that his initial goal was to focus on improving the lives of people in Bayelsa, a small state, before unexpectedly rising to national leadership. Despite the challenges, he emphasized his continued dedication to ensuring peace and reducing human suffering in Nigeria and beyond.
Jonathan expressed gratitude to the organisers of the Sunhak Global Peace Prize and those who honoured him at the Abuja event. “I wouldn’t say much, but only to thank you and to reassure you that my commitment to peace will continue… until the last day I will live on earth,” he stated.
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