Former President Goodluck Jonathan, Atiku Abubakar, Ifeanyi Okowa React to Ngozi Okonjo Iweala’s Top South Africa Appointment

Former President Goodluck Jonathan has reacted to the appointment of Ngozi Okonjo Iweala into South Africa’s Economic Advisory Council by the country’s President Cyril Ramaphosa.

Okonjo Iweala was the Coordinating Minister of Nigeria’s economy during the Jonathan administration. She was also Finance Minister during former Preident Obasanjo’s government.

A communique from the South African Presidency gives insights into what is expected of the Economic Advisory Council.

Excerpts of the communique:

The council will:

• Ensure greater coherence and consistency in the implementation of economic policy and ensure that government and society, in general, is better equipped to respond to changing economic circumstances

• “Advise the president and government more broadly, facilitating the development and implementation of economic policies that spur inclusive growth.”

Reacting to the appointment, Dr Goodluck Jonathan lauded Ngozi Okonjo Iweala’s competence and contributions to Nigeria’s economic successes under his administration.

Jonathan’s tweet:

“I congratulate Dr. @NOIweala who served as the co-ordinating minister for the economy/finance minister in my cabinet, on her appointment as a member of South Africa’s Presidential Economic Advisory Council.

As a two-time minister in Nigeria you left indelible marks as an astute manager of the nation’s economy and resources. I am delighted that you have continued to place your substantial wealth of experience as a development economist at the service of many nations and international organisations to aid global growth and progress.

“I have no doubt in my mind that you will excel in the new assignment.”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s reaction:

“I congratulate Dr @NOIweala on her appointment into South Africa’s Economic Advisory Council. Her appointment by President @CyrilRamaphosa of South Africa is proof that Nigerians are global and capacity is indeed an asset that can be exported.” -AA

Ngozi’s home state governor, Dr Ifeanyi Okowa’s message:

“Your appointment is a testament to your competence and experience as a renowned economist and international development expert,” Governor Okowa said