By Ameh Gabriel
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on the next generation of Africans in various sectors including science and technology, education, governance, entrepreneurship, and the arts to rise with courage and contribute towards building a united, peaceful, and prosperous continent.
He made this call as the Special Guest of Honour at the 25th Anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize, held on Saturday night at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana. Represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of collective effort in shaping Africa’s shared destiny.
Speaking on his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, Tinubu noted that the initiative aims to transform lives, foster inclusive growth, and position Nigeria as a leader in regional integration and development.
“Africans must continue to work together in defining their collective future,” he remarked, urging attendees to inspire excellence, uphold leadership values, and invest in the youth while promoting cross-border collaboration.
The President also extended his appreciation to the Life Patron of the Millennium Excellence Foundation, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, for the warm invitation and for hosting the prestigious event. He described the Millennium Excellence Awards, established in 1988, as a beacon of inspiration and recognition for African achievements, aligning with Nigeria’s aspirations and those of the entire continent.
“I salute the visionaries who have nurtured this institution for a quarter of a century and celebrate the values of honour, integrity, service, and excellence that underpin its work,” Tinubu added.
He also commended the organizers for identifying and celebrating Africa’s brightest minds figures who have made lasting impacts across the continent. He praised the Foundation for recognizing icons like the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Professor Wole Soyinka, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Dr. Mo Ibrahim, describing their contributions as sources of inspiration for generations.
During the event, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu received the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize on behalf of President Tinubu. Other distinguished Nigerians honored included:
- Dr. Benedict Oramah, President/Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM), for Global Intra-Africa Trade Excellence.
- Pastor Umo Eno, Governor of Akwa Ibom State, for Lifetime Africa Achievement in Governance and Public Service.
- Alh. Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Chairman of BUA Group, for African Excellence in Business.
- Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs, recognized for African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence.
The event, marked with grandeur and celebration, reinforced the commitment of African leaders to recognize and nurture excellence, unity, and development across the continent.
