Under-50s better suited for presidency, not centenarians – Jonathan

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on African nations to prioritise younger leaders, insisting that individuals between the ages of 25 and 50 are better equipped to cope with the physical and mental rigours of modern governance.

Jonathan made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja at the International Memorial Lecture and Leadership Conference held to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed.

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Drawing from his experience in office, Jonathan said leadership demands exceptional stamina, resilience and clarity of mind. He recalled that while serving as president, he often slept for only a few hours due to the weight of responsibilities.

“Why do we begin to think that you must be a hundred years old before you can rule your country? If we are looking for people who can run nations in Africa, we should look within the 25 to 50 age bracket. That is when you can be vibrant, physically strong and mentally sound,” he said.

He aligned his position with the objectives of Nigeria’s “Not Too Young To Run” movement, which seeks to lower age limits for elective offices and expand opportunities for youth participation in politics.

Jonathan also questioned the frequent foreign trips undertaken by some public office holders, suggesting that leaders should devote more time to administering their States and Countries.

Citing historical examples, he described General Murtala Muhammed, who became Head of State at 38, as a symbol of decisive and visionary leadership. Despite serving for only 200 days, Jonathan said Muhammed left a lasting legacy rooted in national interest rather than personal ambition.

He also referenced former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who assumed office at 32 and later established the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), describing him as another example of youthful leadership during a critical phase in Nigeria’s history.

However, Jonathan cautioned that age alone does not guarantee effective governance. He stressed the importance of discipline, patriotism and strong democratic institutions.

“Democracy depends on institutions, not individuals. It requires vision rather than decree, persuasion instead of command, and respect for the rule of law,” he said.

He urged young people to see leadership as service, not entitlement, and encouraged African leaders to embrace governance as stewardship.

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“As we mark 50 years of General Murtala Muhammed’s legacy, let us remember that leadership is measured not by duration in office but by the courage to act and the impact made on society,” Jonathan added.

The event attracted political leaders, academics and other stakeholders who reflected on leadership, governance and Africa’s development trajectory.