Nigeria’s President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged Africa to address its challenges internally, advocating for the continent to take control of its own future.
Speaking at a dinner in his honor at the People’s Palace in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, on Wednesday evening, Tinubu countered the often negative global perception of Africa by emphasizing the need for peace, stability, and democracy as essential for progress.
“We need to shed the image of despair and turmoil that Africa is often associated with,” Tinubu stated. “Peace, stability, and democracy are the pathways to our collective and progressive advancement.”
Tinubu highlighted the importance of promoting research and development by offering suitable incentives and called on African leaders to adopt strategic measures to stem the outflow of skills and talents from the continent. He referred to the gathering as a significant moment in Africa’s history, particularly for West and Central Africa, and noted the strengthening ties between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea.
In his address, Tinubu expressed appreciation for the insights of Equatorial Guinea’s President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, noting, “I value the profound thoughts shared by President Mbasogo regarding our continent. We must work together to foster peace and address internal conflicts.”
Tinubu raised concerns about Africa’s healthcare system, questioning, “Why are we complaining about healthcare problems if our doctors cannot have a home in our continent? If our nurses face destitution, and if our judicial system remains outdated?”
On the topic of development, Tinubu asserted, “Tribalism has no place in our nation or region. We must strengthen our continent, cultivate peace together, and support each other. We need to develop our resources and focus on research and development, rewarding these efforts ourselves rather than outsourcing or selling them.”
Addressing international organizations, Tinubu declared, “We are partners, but Africa must implement more than half of the research results produced within its own borders. We have millions of youths yearning for progress.”
He also highlighted the deep connection between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, likening them to “twins held together at the hips,” and underscored the necessity of mutual support. “Our gathering here is a milestone for Africa, particularly for West and Central Africa,” he said. “We must continue to support each other.”
Tinubu emphasized, “The world sees Africa as wretched and full of conflict. We say no. We must focus on peace, stability, and democracy for our collective development. This is a commitment we have made with President Mbasogo.”
President Mbasogo, in turn, expressed gratitude to Tinubu, stating, “It is with great affection and respect that I welcome President Tinubu and his delegation to Equatorial Guinea. We are honored by your visit and the opportunity to strengthen our historical relationship.”
Mbasogo highlighted the need for deeper collaboration, noting, “Nigeria’s role in our foreign policy is significant. This visit is an opportunity to reinforce our bilateral relations, particularly in education, mining, defense, security, and agriculture.”
He further emphasized the importance of joint efforts to tackle regional challenges, such as piracy and insecurity, and stressed collaboration with the African Union and United Nations on issues like climate change, food scarcity, and terrorism.
During their discussions, the two leaders signed an agreement on the Gulf of Guinea Gas Pipeline Project, formalizing their commitment to addressing these pressing regional challenges together.
