Former President Goodluck Jonathan has expressed deep concern over Nigeria’s persistent leadership challenges, attributing the country’s repeated failures in governance to the dominance of tribal and religious sentiments in the political space.

 

Speaking on Talking Books African, a programme hosted by the Rainbow Book Club, Jonathan lamented that Nigeria’s development has been held back by ethnic and religious biases, particularly in how leaders are chosen.

 

He warned that unless the nation breaks away from these deep-rooted divisions, future generations will continue to suffer the consequences.

 

“Nigeria today is divided along tribal and religious lines, and it worries me,” Jonathan said. “If we don’t make changes—which are difficult—it may continue even to our grandchildren because we started wrongly.”

 

The former president emphasized that these divisions often influence political appointments and undermine competence.

 

He urged Nigerian youths to look beyond ethnic and religious identities when supporting leaders, advocating instead for merit and capability.

 

“Young people should understand that tribe and religion are major setbacks for this country,” he stated. “If someone in office wants to make an appointment, and even though Mrs A is more qualified than Mrs B, if Mrs B is from his tribe, he prefers her. That is how we keep getting it wrong.”

 

Jonathan’s remarks add to growing calls for reforms in Nigeria’s political culture, especially ahead of future elections.