Former President Goodluck Jonathan has paid tribute to Nigeria’s late leader, Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, as the nation marks 16 years since his passing, describing him as an icon of integrity and exemplary leadership.
In a commemorative message, Jonathan said Yar’Adua remained a symbol of selfless service, noting that his legacy continues to inspire Nigerians who still remember him with admiration more than a decade after his death.
He described the late president as a patriot who upheld justice, respected the rule of law, and believed strongly in the sanctity of the electoral process.
Jonathan urged current and future leaders to emulate Yar’Adua’s transparent and people-centred style of governance, which he said represents the standard Nigeria urgently needs to return to.
Yar’Adua, who served as Nigeria’s president from 2007 until his death in 2010, is widely regarded for his commitment to democratic principles and efforts to strengthen public trust in governance.
