Former President Goodluck Jonathan has praised Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, describing him as one of the most outstanding ministers who served during his administration.
Jonathan made the remarks in Bauchi while attending the commissioning of 18 newly completed township road projects initiated by the state government.
The former president recalled Mohammed’s service as a minister under his administration, noting that the governor had consistently displayed dedication, discipline and a strong sense of responsibility in public office.
Jonathan said he was not surprised by the progress recorded in Bauchi under Mohammed because he had known the governor for several years and was familiar with his commitment to governance and development.
“I am therefore not surprised by these achievements, having known Governor Bala Mohammed over the years and being aware of his passion for service, determination to deliver democratic dividends and unwavering commitment to development,” Jonathan said.
According to the former president, Mohammed’s achievements in office demonstrated that the people of Bauchi had placed their confidence in the right leader.
Jonathan also commended the state administration for prioritising infrastructure and other sectors that directly affect the wellbeing of residents.
Speaking earlier, Governor Mohammed reflected on his time working under Jonathan, saying the experience provided him with valuable knowledge about responsible leadership and public administration.
He explained that his tenure under the former president exposed him to practical approaches to managing government resources, implementing projects and ensuring that development programmes were properly monitored.
Mohammed said some of the key lessons he gained included establishing a clear policy direction, achieving meaningful results despite financial limitations, personally monitoring projects and ensuring that contractors adhered to agreed schedules.
“I want to tell the people of Bauchi State that whatever I have learnt as a politician, I learnt a great deal from Dr Goodluck Ebele Jonathan,” Mohammed said.
He expressed gratitude to Jonathan for the guidance and experience he received while serving in the former president’s government.
The governor described Jonathan as both a mentor and father figure, stressing that the former president had played a significant role in shaping his political career and approach to leadership.
“I will never forget you, my dear father, because you are indeed my father. You inspired me and contributed immensely to what I have become,” Mohammed said.
Speaking about the newly completed road projects, Mohammed said the initiative was part of his administration’s broader effort to ensure that public funds were converted into tangible infrastructure that would benefit residents.
He maintained that functional road networks were essential to the growth of the state because they facilitate transportation, encourage commercial activities and make it easier for residents to access schools, hospitals and other essential services.
“We believe that quality roads are essential because they connect communities, stimulate commerce, improve access to education and healthcare, and create opportunities for sustainable development,” he said.
Mohammed added that his administration was determined to create lasting projects that would remain useful to future generations.
“Our desire was to leave legacies and landmarks, and Your Excellency, we have delivered on that commitment,” he said.
Jonathan, in his remarks, said Bauchi remained a state that held significant importance to him. He applauded the government for its efforts in improving infrastructure and investing in education, healthcare, agriculture and human capital.
The former president also called on residents to continue supporting the state government and take responsibility for protecting public facilities provided with taxpayers’ funds.
“I have every confidence that Bauchi State will continue on this path of peace, stability and sustainable development,” Jonathan said.
He expressed optimism that continued responsible management of government resources, coupled with cooperation between authorities and citizens, would further strengthen the state’s development.
“With sustained commitment to prudent management of resources and continued partnership between government and the people, the future of this great state will remain bright,” Jonathan added.
