Jonathan Joins Bauchi Emirate Traditional Structure With Jigon Bauchi Title

BAUCHI – Former President Goodluck Jonathan has been formally inducted into the traditional structure of the Bauchi Emirate after the Emir, Dr Rilwanu Sulaiman Adamu, conferred the title of Jigon Bauchi on him.

The former president received the title during a ceremony at the Emir’s Palace in Bauchi metropolis on Tuesday, with Governor Bala Mohammed leading government officials and other dignitaries to the event.

The honour, according to the Bauchi Emirate, recognised Jonathan’s contributions to strengthening democracy, promoting peace and advancing national unity in Nigeria.

The Emir described Jonathan as a good leader and commended his commitment to peace and democratic development.

The conferment places Jonathan among traditional title holders within the Bauchi Emirate, giving the ceremony significance beyond a formal honour as it recognised a former Nigerian president for his post-presidential and national contributions.

Governor Mohammed, who thanked the Emirate for honouring the former president, said the title reflected Jonathan’s contribution to Nigeria’s democratic development and national cohesion.

“The conferment of this title reflects the recognition of Dr Goodluck Jonathan’s contributions to the development of democracy and national unity in Nigeria,” Mohammed said.

The governor added that Jonathan’s leadership and contributions to the country remained worthy of recognition and commendation.

Jonathan, in his response, expressed appreciation to the Emir, the Bauchi Emirate and the people of the state for the recognition.

“I am deeply honoured by this recognition and I appreciate His Royal Highness, the Bauchi Emirate and the people of Bauchi State for this honour,” Jonathan said.

He subsequently pledged to respect the laws, traditions and values of the Bauchi Emirate Council and uphold the dignity associated with the title.

Jonathan said he would continue to respect the Emirate’s traditions and ensure that the honour bestowed on him was upheld with dignity.

The ceremony further highlighted the continuing role of traditional institutions in recognising individuals whose public service and contributions are considered significant to peace, democracy and national unity.

The former president had been in Bauchi since Sunday and, on Monday, inaugurated some road projects executed by the Bala Mohammed administration, according to PUNCH, which reported the conferment.