President Bola Tinubu has called on African leaders to prioritise unity and dialogue as the foundation for the continent’s progress.
He spoke on Tuesday in Accra, Ghana during the inauguration of President John Mahama.
Apart from Tinubu, other notable African figures or leaders that attende the inauguration include ex-Nigerian Presidents Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan; Rwandan President Paul Kagame and ex-South African President Jacob Zuma.
Tinubu, in his speech, hailed Ghana’s democratic transition as a symbol of Africa’s potential for collaboration and resilience.
Addressing an audience of regional leaders and dignitaries, Tinubu, who is also the Chairman, Economic Community of West African States, emphasised the importance of solidarity among African nations.
He urged leaders to set aside differences and work together for the collective good, underscoring dialogue as the key to resolving disagreements.
“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,” he said.
Tinubu praised Ghana’s democracy, describing the peaceful transfer of power as a victory for the entire continent.
He also highlighted the shared history and bond between Ghana and Nigeria as a model for cooperation in addressing regional challenges.
“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,” Tinubu remarked.
The Nigerian President called on African leaders to confront pressing issues such as poverty, youth unemployment, and insecurity with a unified approach.
“Your ascension to power should also mark a new and invigorated momentum in pursuing sub-regional integration and progress.
“With laser focus, we can tackle our people’s most pressing concerns: poverty, youth unemployment, instability, insurgency, and many other problems hampering our desired progress,” the ECOWAS Chairman noted.
He urged nations to build on the legacy of visionaries like Ghana’s first President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, who championed African unity and independence.
Tinubu also pledged Nigeria’s unwavering support for President Mahama, describing him as a leader of vision and dedication.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ghana and collaborating to achieve regional stability and development.
“President John Mahama and I share a deep friendship. My dear brother, I am here to work with you.
“You know you can count on Nigeria’s support and goodwill whenever needed. We are your brothers and sisters. The bond is strong and cannot be broken,” Tinubu said.
In his closing remarks, Tinubu expressed optimism for Africa’s future, rooted in shared values and collective action.
“May we always walk in the way and the spirit of these enlightened leaders,” he said.