President Bola Tinubu has emphasized Africa’s capacity to overcome poverty and build a prosperous future on its own terms.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour during the swearing-in ceremony of Ghana’s newly inaugurated President, John Dramani Mahama, in Accra, he praised the country’s peaceful democratic transition as a testament to the continent’s progress, urging critics to stop questioning Africa’s potential.
In his remarks, Tinubu affirmed Africa’s determination to shape its destiny.
“We shall lift our nations out of poverty and build a resilient economy at our own pace,” he declared.
“We have nothing to prove to anyone except ourselves. We have found the critical path to our success.”
While President Mahama’s inauguration marked his return to leadership, Tinubu’s presence at the ceremony underscored Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening ties with Ghana and other African nations in pursuit of a brighter future for the continent.
The Nigerian leader lauded Ghana’s democratic journey as a beacon for the continent.
“This moment does more than symbolize another milestone in the evolution of Ghanaian democratic society. It lays to rest the question of whether Ghana and Africa are capable of democratic and productive endeavors,” Tinubu said.
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Describing the occasion as historic, President Tinubu likened Ghana to a “Black star rising high in the African sky,” symbolizing unity, hope, and a shared destiny across the continent.
He urged African nations to strengthen their bonds of brotherhood and resist external forces that seek to divide them.
“While others may seek to demean Africa and keep brother pitted against brother, that shining star reminds us of who we are and, better yet, who we can be. We shall always strive to work together. Even when we disagree, we shall dialogue and discuss until we reach an agreement.”
Tinubu congratulated President Mahama on his return to power, describing him as a leader of “patriotic vision and substance” with a deep commitment to his nation’s progress.
He pledged Nigeria’s support to Ghana, emphasizing the unbreakable bond between the two West African nations.
“President 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. The bond is strong and cannot be broken.”
Tinubu called for renewed focus on subregional integration to address pressing challenges such as poverty, youth unemployment, instability, and insurgency.
He highlighted the need for closer collaboration between Nigeria and Ghana to foster shared prosperity and stability across West Africa.
“Your ascension to power should also mark a new and invigorated momentum in pursuing subregional integration and progress. With laser focus, we can tackle our people’s most pressing concerns,” Tinubu said.
President Tinubu concluded his speech with a message of hope, calling on African nations to continue building democratic systems and resilient economies.
“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 prayed.
