President Bola Tinubu and governors, on Thursday, hailed former President Goodluck Jonathan as he clocks 68, with Tinubu describing him as a “guardian of democracy” whose conduct since leaving office has continued to strengthen Nigeria’s institutions.

Speaking at the 10th anniversary dinner of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja on Thursday,  an event that also marked Jonathan’s 68th birthday,  Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, praised the former leader as “a profound lesson on life after public service.”

In a statement issued by Shettima’s media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, the President said Jonathan taught political actors and the electorate to respect electoral choices, win or lose, because democracy “offers repeated opportunities to renew mandates.”

“There can never be enough words to express our national gratitude to him,” Tinubu said.

 “He has remained the same guardian of our collective values since leaving office.”

He contrasted leaders who use influence for narrow ends with those who recommit themselves to humanity.

“Some choose a vehicle that serves only themselves. Others choose a nobler path , devoting their lives to the service of humanity,” he said.

Tinubu also warned that democratic norms across West Africa had come under pressure from “adventurists, extremists, and actors intoxicated by power,” urging unity around democratic outcomes and civility in contestation.

He said the Jonathan Foundation offered a template for service beyond the office, stressing that “our democracy stands because of people like former President Jonathan, who believe the Nigerian state is bigger than any individual.”

Jonathan, in his remarks, thanked Shettima, former Sierra Leonean President Ernest Bai Koroma and other dignitaries for honouring the occasion, saying the foundation’s work was shaped by lessons from his time in office.

He condoled with Nigerians over recent attacks and abductions, urging leaders to be more responsive to citizens’ security and welfare.

Also, Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, congratulated Jonathan on his 68th birthday, describing him as a patriot whose leadership, commitment to democracy, peace, and unity have earned global respect.

In a message signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara praised Jonathan’s “remarkable achievements and contributions to national development” and wished him many more years of impactful service.

Similarly, Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, celebrated the former President, saying Jonathan had left “an indelible mark” on Nigeria’s democratic, economic and social development.