Former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan has questioned the effectiveness of the four-year presidential term in Ghana and Nigeria, describing it as “too short” for delivering sustainable national development.
Speaking at the Executive Leadership Retreat in Ada, Ghana, Jonathan argued that the limited tenure hinders a president’s ability to implement long-term policies. “What can somebody do in four years?” he asked, noting that most African countries have a five-year presidential term.
Jonathan explained that the four-year term structure creates challenges for new presidents, saying, “If you are a new person and you just came in, you need about a year before you will adjust. You work for two years, the next year is an election year. So time to really move your country is very limited.”
The former president’s comments have sparked renewed debate about the presidential term in both Ghana and Nigeria. Jonathan’s remarks highlight the need for a more sustainable governance structure that allows leaders to drive meaningful development and progress.
In a region where long-term planning is crucial for development, Jonathan’s concerns about the four-year term warrant consideration. As both countries continue to navigate complex governance challenges, his insights offer valuable food for thought.