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Former President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan will preside over the public launch of the Solomon and Mary Lar Leadership Institute scheduled for November 24, 2026 in Abuja.
Jonathan accepted the invitation on Thursday when members of the institute’s central planning committee paid him a courtesy visit at the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation in Abuja.
Speaking during the visit, the former president highlighted the importance of leadership for sustainable development in Nigeria and across Africa, calling for a renewed focus on leadership recruitment, training and development.
He said Nigeria must review its leadership structures to ensure they deliver greater impact and tangible benefits to citizens.
Jonathan, who was recognized internationally for his role in promoting peace and democratic values after accepting defeat in the 2015 presidential election, praised the late Chief Solomon Daushep Lar’s contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development.
He recalled Lar’s role in leading the G-34, a group of prominent Nigerians who challenged the military regime of the late General Sani Abacha and called for a return to democratic rule.
The former president also praised Lar for his resignation from Abacha’s cabinet, where he served as a federal minister, describing him as a courageous statesman and an “emancipator of minorities.”
Jonathan also paid tribute to the nonagenarian matriarch of the Lar family and founder of the institute, Professor Mary Lar, who was part of the delegation.
He described her as an exemplary mother and leader whose vision for the institute would contribute to leadership development and mentorship in the country.
The former president also urged Nigeria to draw lessons from other democracies by strengthening leadership values and institutions at both subnational and federal levels.
He cited the 2014 National Conference convened by his administration as one of the initiatives aimed at addressing crucial national issues and improving governance.
Jonathan expressed satisfaction with the creation of the institute, noting that its goals are in line with his foundation’s commitment to mentorship and democratic development.
He said the institute has the potential to make significant contributions to strengthening democracy and preparing future leaders for responsible service.
Members of the delegation included former Deputy Governor of Kogi State, Chief Dr. Philip Salawu; former Director General of the National Council of Women’s Societies and former member of the House of Representatives, Dr. Dorgu; Alhaji Abubakar Rimi Jr.; and the Hon. Beni Lar, five-term member of the House of Representatives and daughter of Chief Solomon and Professor Mary Lar.
Others were the Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Hon. Baby Daramola; Mrs. Amina Okeke; and Mr. Ilya, secretary of the committee.
The November 24, 2026 launch is expected to formally introduce the institute and its leadership development vision to the public.
