Presidential Research & Communications Unit - Rule of Law & Good Governance

The Acting President, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan has reaffirmed Government’s determination to address critical national challenges and institute good governance that will improve the living standards of all Nigerians. According to him, “the best advertisement of good governance is its positive expression of happiness in the lives of the governed”.

He made these remarks on Thursday March 4 while inaugurating the Presidential Advisory Council in the Council Chambers, Presidential Villa, Abuja. The Advisory Council is to provide the Federal Government with alternative inputs into policy formation, promote good governance in the areas of power, economy, security, infrastructure, social sector, the electoral process, and the fight against corruption, among others.

Dr. Jonathan restated his belief that “the privilege and opportunity of service is a sacred trust that we must not betray. It is in this regard that the loud but healthy clamour for good governance across the country cannot be ignored. We are here in the name of good governance and there is no going back,” he stated.

The Acting President told members of the Advisory Council that their wealth of experience and the urgency to deliver good governance to the Nigerian people informed their selection, and urged them to come up with practical options that will guide Government in this regard.

“It is in pursuance of this goal and having due regard to the urgency of the moment, that I have requested that a team of men and women of distinguished pedigree be called to service at this hour and in the interest of our nation. This is beyond politics. It is the big call of our generation, and our citizens are expectant,” he stated.

Jonathan assured that the inputs of the panel will not be treated with levity, adding that the Federal Government will pay attention to contributions within the terms of reference of the Council.

Responding on behalf of other members of the Council, its chairman, Gen. T.Y Danjuma, said the Acting President has demonstrated commitment to excellence and a determination to succeed by constituting the Council, and assured that the Council will advise him “honestly and fearlessly”.

He formally congratulated Dr. Jonathan on his assumption of office as Acting President on behalf of members of the Advisory Council, saying “we are confident that the great hopes which have been invested in you by the nation and the entire world will not be disappointed.”

“This is a decisive moment in our history. At such moments, God always ensure that a nation possesses significant personalities who can act as agents of change. Mr. Acting President, you are the significant personality that God has chosen at this time to save the country.” he stated.

He described the members of the advisory council as hardworking men and women who are all distinguished in their respective callings. On our part, we take this assignment to heart and look forward to all we can do to make this administration a success.”

Other terms of reference of the Advisory Council include: to evaluate policy implementation and advise on areas requiring adjustments; to advise the President on how to maximize the benefits derivable from government’s efforts; to advise on such actions and programmes that may improve credibility and performance of the government, and advise on any other matter referred to it by the President.

The council has Lt Gen T. Y Danjuma, former Minister of Defence and Elder Statesman as its chairman, while foremost constitutional lawyer, Prof. Ben Nwabueze, will serve as Deputy Chairman.

Other members are Mr. Fola Adeola; Mallam Abubakar Gimba; Mr. Basil Omiyi; Alhaji M. D. Yusuf; Chief Emeka Anyaoku; Amb. G. B. Preware; Prof. Bartholomew Nnaji, and Mr. Kase Lawal.

Others include Mallam Muhammed Hayatuddeen; Justice Alfa Belgore; Hon. Chibudom Nwuche; Mrs. Mobolaji Johnson; Hajiya Halita Aliyu; Alhaji Magaji Danbatta; Prof. B. G. Bajoga; Dr. (Mrs) Sally Bolujoko; Mrs. Mariam Uwais , and Chief Kanu Agabi.

The remaining members are Dr. Bamanga Tukur; Alhaji Ismaila Isa; Prof. Shehu Said Sarinwata, and Dr. Simon C. Okolo. The Chairman, National Economic Summit Group, is also a member.

The Permanent Secretary (Special Duties) in the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation would serve as Secretary.