By| Goodluck E.Adubazi, Abuja
The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to serving as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation and regional integration, declaring that there is no alternative to African unity in confronting the continent’s numerous challenges.
Speaking Monday night in Abuja at the commemoration of the 2026 Africa Day celebration, the minister said the Federal Government, under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, would continue to pursue policies aimed at strengthening sustainable development and deepening regional cooperation across the continent.
The event, organised by the Forum of African Missions, marked the anniversary of the establishment of the Organization of African Unity, now known as the African Union.
Addressing diplomats, stakeholders and guests at the event themed, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation System to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu described Africa Day as more than a ceremonial observance, saying it symbolises the shared history, struggles and aspirations of Africans.
“Africa Day is far more than a ceremonial observance,” she stated.
“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.”
The minister stressed that the dream of a united, peaceful and prosperous Africa must remain the guiding vision for all African nations.
She noted that this year’s theme highlights one of the most critical pillars of human development — access to clean water and sanitation — lamenting that millions of Africans still lack reliable access to safe water despite its importance to public health, food production, industrial growth and environmental sustainability.
According to her, the challenge continues to threaten lives, weaken livelihoods and undermine economic progress across the continent.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu further underscored the importance of preserving African culture, describing cultural diversity as a bridge for deeper understanding and stronger cooperation among African nations.
“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,” she said.
She added that unity remains Africa’s strongest weapon in tackling insecurity, economic inequality, climate change and global injustices, insisting that stronger collaboration and commitment to Pan-African ideals would enable the continent realise its full potential.
The minister also called for deliberate and coordinated efforts toward sustainable water management in the face of climate change, desertification, pollution and rapid urbanisation.
“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,” she said.
She noted that the theme aligns with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, the continent’s blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
“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,” the minister added.
The statement was issued by Dr. Magnus Eze, Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Office of the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Abuja.
