Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has recounted his political journey while celebrating Dr. Reuben Abati at 60, describing his rapid rise from deputy governor to president of Nigeria within four years as “a political miracle” and attributing his elevation to divine intervention.
Speaking at a book launch to commemorate the 60th birthday of ace journalist, former presidential spokesman, and ARISE News anchor Dr. Reuben Abati, former President Jonathan said his journey through Nigeria’s political hierarchy could only have been made possible by God.
“My political journey looks like a political miracle,” Jonathan said. “From deputy governor to become the president of this country under four years was a miracle. It’s only God that made it possible.”
Johnathan expressed gratitude to Dr. Abati for documenting part of his political life in one of the books, ‘How Goodluck Jonathan Became President’, and praised his intellect, writing, and analytical skills.
“I always like people who write about me because sometimes it’s so difficult for you to even write about yourself,” he said. “When people write about you, it makes more meaning. I’ll be very interested to read how Goodluck Jonathan became president from back to back.”
Jonathan also recalled his first encounter with Abati, dating back to 2010 when the journalist reviewed a compilation of Facebook posts about him.
“When I looked through that review, I said this is somebody that has something upstairs. It showed that you are a scholar, brainy and intelligent person,” he noted.
Extending warm wishes to Abati on his diamond jubilee, Jonathan said: “You are celebrating your diamond jubilee today with your beautiful wife, and I say happy birthday to my younger brother and good friend, Reuben Abati. You have achieved significantly from all the testimonies we’ve heard. We pray you continue doing so for the next 60 years before you get to the biblical 120.”
The former president also commended Abati’s contributions to journalism, public communication, and knowledge development, saying his works have inspired national conversations.
“I thank you for contributing to knowledge,” Jonathan said. “You served with me very well, and I have to appreciate that. You’re like a younger brother to me.”
He joined dignitaries including Governor Alex Otti, former Governor Gbenga Daniel, Bishop Matthew Hassan Kukah, and other distinguished guests in celebrating Abati, describing the occasion as “a fitting tribute to a man of intellect, service and patriotism.”
Boluwatife Enome
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