Jonathan reportedly accepted the invitation when members of the institute’s Central Planning Committee visited him at the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja. During the meeting, the former president emphasised the need for Nigeria and other African countries to pay greater attention to leadership recruitment, training and development. He said reviewing existing leadership structures would be important to ensuring that governance delivers meaningful benefits to citizens.

Jonathan also paid tribute to the late Chief Solomon Daushep Lar, recognising his contributions to Nigeria’s democratic development. He recalled Lar’s role in the G-34, a group of prominent Nigerians that opposed military rule under the late General Sani Abacha and advocated a return to democratic governance.

The former president further commended Lar for leaving the Abacha administration, describing the late statesman as a courageous figure who stood up for democratic principles and the interests of minority communities.

He also praised Prof. Mary Lar, co-founder of the institute, for her commitment to leadership development and mentorship. Jonathan expressed confidence that the institution could help promote responsible leadership and strengthen democratic institutions in Nigeria.

The former president urged the country to learn from other democracies by reinforcing leadership values and improving institutions at both federal and state levels. He also referenced the 2014 National Conference convened during his administration as an effort to address major national questions and explore ways to improve governance.

Jonathan said the institute’s objectives aligned with the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation’s focus on democratic development and mentorship, adding that it could help prepare future leaders for public service.

Members of the delegation included former Kogi State Deputy Governor Chief Dr Philip Salawu; former National Council of Women Societies Director-General and ex-member of the House of Representatives Dr Mrs Dorgu; Alhaji Abubakar Rimi Jnr; and Hon. Beni Lar, daughter of Solomon and Mary Lar and a former member of the House of Representatives.

Others included the Central Planning Committee chairman, Hon. Bimbo Daramola, Mrs Amina Okeke and the committee’s secretary, Mr Ilya.

The planned launch is intended to introduce the institute’s leadership development vision and establish a platform for mentorship, knowledge-sharing and the promotion of democratic values.