The Executive Director of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), Ms. Ann Iyonu, has warned that Africa’s democratic systems are confronting critical challenges, stressing that the continent must renew its commitment to good governance, peace, and inclusive development. She made the declaration in her goodwill message during the celebration of the Foundation’s 10th anniversary, a moment she described as both historic and deeply reflective.
Addressing dignitaries, partners, and stakeholders, Ms. Iyonu said the Foundation’s decade-long journey has been defined by resilience, purpose, and divine grace. She expressed profound gratitude to God for sustaining the organisation through seasons of trials, triumphs, and growth, stating that without His guidance, neither the Foundation nor her six-year tenure as Executive Director would have been possible.
Ms. Iyonu noted that the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation was established with a clear mission to advance democratic governance, deepen equity, and promote sustainable development across Africa. Ten years later, she said the organisation stands proud of its impact, having transformed bold ideas into tangible interventions that continue to shape the continent’s democratic landscape.
She highlighted the Foundation’s contributions to strengthening democratic institutions through its involvement in election mediation missions, election observation, policy dialogues, and strategic advocacy engagements. These efforts, she explained, have helped build greater credibility and trust in electoral processes across various African countries.
A major pillar of the Foundation’s work, she said, is the Annual Democracy Dialogue, inaugurated in 2021. Over the years, the Dialogue has grown into a vital continental platform for reflection, engagement, and collaborative action. This year’s edition, held in Accra under the theme “Why Democracies Die,” interrogated the systemic and structural threats confronting democracy both in Africa and worldwide. According to her, the theme reflects the urgency of the moment, as democratic institutions in many nations face unprecedented pressure.
Ms. Iyonu also emphasized the Foundation’s peacebuilding work, noting that GJF has played key roles in facilitating dialogue in conflict-prone regions, supporting peaceful political transitions, and promoting inclusive governance as a sustainable path to peace. She said these interventions have helped reduce tensions, enhance trust between citizens and state institutions, and encourage stability in fragile political environments.
She added that the Foundation continues to promote the security of African states within the framework of human rights, democratic norms, and the rule of law. Through research, learning programmes, and knowledge exchange, GJF is contributing to a deeper understanding of emerging security challenges while fostering collaboration among key actors. The Foundation’s work in preventing violent extremism—both online and offline—has also helped bridge gaps between communities and state authorities, while shaping policies that promote peace and stability.
Beyond the continent, Ms. Iyonu revealed that the Foundation has expanded its global presence, forming new international partnerships that amplify African voices and strengthen cross-border cooperation on democracy, peacebuilding, and development. This expansion, she said, reflects the Foundation’s commitment to ensuring that African perspectives influence global governance discourse.
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Ms. Iyonu concluded her message with gratitude to the Foundation’s partners and supporters who have contributed to its growth and achievements over the past decade. She said the 10-year milestone is not just a celebration of past accomplishments but a renewed call to action for all stakeholders committed to safeguarding Africa’s democratic future.
According to her, if Africa must overcome the crossroads at which its democracy stands, the continent must prioritise accountability, strong institutions, peaceful transitions, and inclusive governance. She reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to pursuing these ideals with greater determination in the years ahead.
As the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation steps into its next decade, Ms. Iyonu said its mission remains clear: to promote a more peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Africa—one where democracy not only survives but thrives.
