Dr. Goodluck Jonathan
Vice-President under Yar'Adua, he became president upon Yar'Adua's death and was later elected for a full term.
About Nigeria's Heads of State
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government, elected for a renewable four-year term. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law and represents Nigeria in international affairs. Under the 1999 Constitution, executive power is vested in the President, exercised in accordance with the Constitution and laws made by the National Assembly.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Dr. Goodluck Jonathan serve as Head of State of Nigeria?
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan served as Nigeria's head of government from May 2010 to May 2015.
When was Dr. Goodluck Jonathan born?
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan was born on 20 November 1957, which would make he about 68 years old today.
What state is Dr. Goodluck Jonathan from?
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan hails from Bayelsa State in Nigeria's South-South geopolitical zone.
What religion did Dr. Goodluck Jonathan practise?
Dr. Goodluck Jonathan is widely identified as a Christian. Religion has often factored into Nigeria's leadership representation, though it is not a constitutional requirement for office.
What does the President of Nigeria do?
The President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria is both head of state and head of government. The President commands the armed forces, appoints ministers with Senate confirmation, signs bills into law, sets national policy and represents Nigeria internationally. Under the 1999 Constitution, the President serves a renewable four-year term.
Other Nigerian Presidents & Heads of State
- Alhaji Shehu Shagari
- Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua
- Bola Ahmed Tinubu
- Chief Ernest Shonekan
- Chief Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Abdulsalami Abubakar
- General Ibrahim Babangida
- General Murtala Muhammed
- General Olusegun Obasanjo
- General Sani Abacha
- General Yakubu Gowon
- Major General Johnson Aguiyi-Ironsi
- Major General Muhammadu Buhari
- Muhammadu Buhari
- Sir Abubakar Tafawa Balewa
Government of Bayelsa State
- Governor
- Douye Diri
- House of Reps
- 5 members — listed on the Bayelsa State page