Victoria Mbangwa
President Bola Tinubu has called for African unity and resilience in the face of global challenges, emphasizing that the continent must chart its development path.
Speaking in Accra yesterday as a special guest at the inauguration of Ghana’s newly elected President, John Mahama, Tinubu underscored the importance of fostering democracy, addressing poverty, and building stronger economies across Africa.
Tinubu highlighted the progress made by African nations like Nigeria and Ghana in sustaining democratic governance, noting that critics should acknowledge these strides rather than continuously question Africa’s capabilities.
Tinubu said, “We celebrate African democracy today as Ghana and her beloved people mark the transition from one democratic government to another. This moment does more than symbolise another milestone in the evolution of Ghanaian democratic society.
“It lays to bed the question of whether Ghana and Africa are capable of democratic and productive endeavours. Ghana has answered that question resoundingly. It is time Africa’s critics stopped forgetting the strides your nation, Nigeria and others have made by continuing to ask us to prove ourselves.
“We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves. We have found the critical path to our success. We shall lift our nations out of poverty and build a resilient economy at our own pace.
“Today, I am here not only as the President of Nigeria but also as an African in resolute support for Ghana and her people. This moment is a source of pride and honour for you, the entire continent, and its Diaspora.
‘’The sun is out, and the sky says daylight, but I see today a Black star rising high in the African sky. This Black star shines over this nation, and its rays spread across this continent with a sense of shared history, hope, compassion, unity, and devotion to our common welfare.
“While others may seek to demean Africa and keep brother pit against brother, that shining star reminds us of who we are. Better yet, it reminds us of who we can be. That star means that we shall always strive to work together.
“Even when we disagree, we shall dialogue and discuss until we reach an agreement. Never, never shall we harm others and never allow any outsider to hurt us or disrupt the unity for which so many of our heroes gave their sweat, blood and very lives to achieve.
“The spirit of Ghana’s first President, Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, is here today, lifting that star higher and higher.
“Just as Ghana draws inspiration and a well of strength from Kwame Nkrumah and many of its past leaders, Nigeria similarly draws inspiration from its founding leaders who not only fought for her independence but also cherished the close relationship between our two nations.”
He concluded by urging both nations to leverage their strong bond to drive subregional integration and tackle common challenges.
‘’May Ghana’s democracy continue to grow stronger. May progress and prosperity be your portion. Let us all look forward to a future filled with hope, opportunity and prosperity.’’ He added.
