Nigeria Remains the Catalyst for Africa’s Economic Transformation, Unity Not Negotiable- Foreign Affairs Minister
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s determination to be a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation and continental integration.
The minister said the Federal Government under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, would continue to pursue policies that strengthen sustainable development and enhance regional cooperation.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu spoke in Abuja, Monday night, at the commemoeation of this year’s Africa Day on the theme: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation System to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”
At the event organised by the Forum of African Missions to celebrate the formation of the Organization of African Union (OAU), now, the African Union (AU) in 1963, she called for African unity stressing that it was only working together, that the continent could confront its challenges.
According to her, marking Africa Day, was a momentous occasion which reminded Africans of their shared history, collective struggles, and common aspirations as one people united by destiny.
“Africa Day is far more than a ceremonial observance,” the minister said, adding that “It is a powerful symbol of the enduring vision and courage of our founding fathers, who in 1963 established the Organization of African Unity, now the African Union, with the noble objective of promoting solidarity, safeguarding sovereignty, and advancing the political and economic liberation of our continent. Their dream of a united, prosperous, and peaceful Africa remains our guiding light,” the minister said.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu was gladdened that this year’s theme drew urgent attention to one of the most fundamental pillars of human development and societal wellbeing.
She noted that water is life and central to human survival, public health, food production, industrial growth, energy generation, and environmental sustainability, but lamented that millions across the continent still lacked reliable access to clean water and adequate sanitation services.
This challenge, she posited, not only threatens lives and livelihoods, but also undermines economic development and social stability.
“Our cultural diversity must continue to serve as a bridge for deeper understanding and stronger cooperation among our nations. In a rapidly changing world, preserving and promoting African culture is essential, not only for safeguarding our identity, but also for empowering future generations with pride, confidence, and purpose. Culture remains a vital instrument for peace-building, regional integration, and sustainable development.
“Equally important is the imperative of African unity. Our progress as a continent depends on our ability to act together, to speak with one voice, and to confront shared challenges with shared solutions. Unity remains our most powerful tool in addressing insecurity, economic inequality, climate vulnerability, and the persistent injustices of the global order. Through stronger collaboration, mutual support, and unwavering commitment to Pan African ideals, Africa can fully realize its immense potential and claim its rightful place in global affairs.”
Continuing, Odumegwu-Ojukwu said: “As Africa confronts the growing impacts of climate change, desertification, pollution, and rapid urbanization, our commitment to sustainable water management must become more deliberate and coordinated. We must invest in resilient infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation over shared water resources, embrace innovation and technology, and prioritize policies that guarantee equitable access for all.
“This theme aligns directly with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, our continental blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. It reminds us that achieving the Africa we want requires practical action, strategic partnerships, and responsible stewardship of our natural resources…
“As we celebrate Africa Day today, let us renew our faith in Africa. Let us strengthen our bonds of unity, cherish and preserve our cultural heritage, and recommit ourselves to building a continent where every citizen has access to dignity, opportunity, and prosperity.
“Together, through unity, solidarity, and purposeful action, we can secure a brighter future for Africa and for generations yet unborn.”