Jonathan asks Tinubu to create department to manage presidential libraries

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has asked President Bola Tinubu to establish a department to oversee presidential libraries.

Jonathan spoke on Thursday in Abuja during the launch of the book titled: ‘A Journey in Service’ authored by Ibrahim Babangida, a former head of state. The event also featured a fundraising for IBB’s library.

Jonathan said every president makes history, but not all contribute to documenting it. He added that proper documentation strengthens historical accuracy.

“When I left office, for the first six months, I toured America and I visited most of the presidential libraries. The presidential libraries are taken as federal government assets,” he said.

“So, Mr. President (Tinubu), you need to set up a department in the Secretary to the Government office.

“So the American government help the management of the presidential library. This is why all American presidents have presidential libraries – there are numerous examples.”

Jonathan also commended Babangida over the launch of his memoir and added that Nigeria’s history is incomplete without his story.

“So, Ibrahim Babandiga as we all know, is one of the most charismatic leaders in this country. He is somebody that, up to date, people go as if they are going on a pilgrimage to consult him,” Jonathan said

“We thank God for giving him that grace and the wisdom to continue to mentor people. In terms of leadership, Nigerians know you have contributed significantly in terms of the infrastructure development of this country and social mobilisation.

“We cannot write the history of Nigeria without dedicating a reasonable part to your service as the president of Nigeria.”

Jonathan added that other leaders, especially former presidents, should establish presidential libraries to aid in better documenting Nigeria’s history.