‘I am humbled by the gesture’ – President Jonathan praises Time Magazine

By Osagie Alonge

President Goodluck Jonathan has thanked all Nigerians and his numerous supporters all over the world who voted for his inclusion on Time Magazine’s ‘The 100 Most Influential People in the World’ for the year 2012.

The President took to his Facebook page to give the vote of thanks yesterday, a few hours after Time Magazine published the list.

Read Jonathan’s statement below…

My attention has been drawn to a publication in the highly influential Time Magazine on my inclusion in this year’s edition of ‘The 100 Most Influential People in the World’ list. As the list is compiled from votes received from the public, I am humbled by this gesture and would want to thank all Nigerians, Africans and citizens of the world who voted for my inclusion in the 2012 list. Let me also thank Time Magazine for this worthy project intended to encourage and inspire readers to work for a better world. To me this is a vote of confidence and also a pointer to what is possible in our country and our continent. This honour, unexpected as it is, only inspires me to redouble my efforts at implementing the Transformational Agenda and rededicating myself to the task of leading Nigeria to fulfill her potential as one of the world’s leading economies in the not too distant future. Regardless of distractions, our relentless pursuit to secure life and property; the provision of electricity for human and industrial use; access to quality education and health for our citizens; rebuilding and providing needed infrastructure; the fight against corruption and poverty; self-sufficiency in basic food among others for our people shall remain our focus. Once again I thank you. GEJ

Read Johnson Sirleaf’s (President of Liberia) write on Jonathan for Time Magazine…

Goodluck Ebele Azikiwe Jonathan exemplifies the African political renaissance at a time when the people of the continent are starting to reap the fruit of their resources and their hard work. President Jonathan, 54, possesses the qualities needed at this moment of great challenges, having come to power at a crucial moment in the history of Nigeria. The country has grown out of its past of corruption, mismanagement and brutality, but the foundation of good governance is still fragile.

In two short years, President Jonathan has shown the same dexterity he demonstrated as governor of Bayelsa, the same ability to find the remedies to the many complexities of running a nascent democracy. He has spearheaded the fight against corruption and turned Nigeria into an example of good governance. He has also made a significant impact on consolidating peace and security in West Africa. From the onset of our own crisis, Liberia has benefitted from the support of Nigeria. President Jonathan not only upheld the trend but added to it. With leaders like President Jonathan, Africa is sure to move toward prosperity, freedom and dignity for all of its people.