Former Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has urged Nigeria’s political and economic leaders to adopt a more proactive role in West Africa by spearheading initiatives that facilitate intra-African trade and integration. He believes that Nigeria’s leadership and support is critical in promoting unity and strengthening the continent’s economy.
In his address at the Abuja launch event for the autobiography “A Journey in Service” of retired General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, the former Ghanaian president highlighted Nigeria’s critical significance in shaping the future of Africa.
He acknowledged the country’s current challenges but stressed that Africa’s progress depends on Nigeria assuming its “historic responsibilities” to drive regional stability and economic growth.
In his word, “I cannot forgo the chance of this prestigious platform to mount an important hobby horse of mine, and that is the appeal I’ve made before in this great country to the political and economic elite of the Federal Republic—to aggressively take the leadership of West Africa and Africa’s efforts to unite our nations and promote e-commerce.”
Akufo-Addo contended that in order for Africa to achieve effective integration and progress, Nigeria must step forward as a prominent figure in championing democracy and economic unity in the region.
“That evolution cannot succeed without you, but you will be its greatest beneficiary. I am aware that, like all the rest of us, you have significant problems on your own, which require urgent attention. However, history cannot and does not wait,” he added.
Akufo-Addo also emphasized the pressing need for the implementation of strategies to confront contemporary issues in West Africa and the broader African continent, underscoring Ghana’s dedication as a reliable partner in the shared pursuit of sustainable development in the region.
His comments echoed the increasing calls for Nigeria to utilize its substantial economic and political clout to promote stability, democracy, and economic unification across Africa, thereby assuming a more influential role in shaping the continent’s future.
