By Ghazali Ibrahim
Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been appointed as the United Nations Global Crisis Envoy.
The appointment endorsed by global powers including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, China, Russia, and the United Nations echoes the high-level international role once held by former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair, who served as the Middle East envoy for the UN, EU, US, and Russia.
With this new assignment, Jonathan becomes the first African former Head of State to be named to such a position.
The new role will see Jonathan serve as a mediator and facilitator in complex geopolitical crises around the world.
Jonathan’s political journey is often described as a symbol of humility, resilience, and transformation.
From a university lecturer, he rose through Nigeria’s political ranks, serving as Commissioner, Deputy Governor, Governor, Vice President, Acting President, and President.
Now, he transitions to a new chapter on the international stage.
While reactions continue to pour in from around the world, many Nigerians and international observers have hailed the appointment as a well-deserved recognition of Jonathan’s calm diplomacy and quiet strength, particularly in leading peaceful transitions and mediation efforts across Africa since leaving office in 2015.
The former president’s latest global assignment underscores not only his personal evolution but also Africa’s growing influence in global affairs.
