Former President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and current African Union High Representative, Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, has called for unity and development as Africa faces political instability.
Ibn Chambas made the call while speaking as a guest lecturer at the 13th Zik’s Annual Lecture Series at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka.
The lecture, themed “Zik’s Legacies and The Rising Social Movements in Africa: Rethinking Regional Integration in Africa,” served as a platform to honour the late Dr Nnamdi Azikiwe while addressing the pressing challenges faced by the continent.
Chambas lamented the political instability across Africa, attributing it partly to external influences from former colonial powers.
He argued that a united Africa is essential for enhancing security and socioeconomic development, which would mitigate the restiveness and social protests currently rampant on the continent. “The erosion of trust in the leadership of Africa has fueled so much agitation and unrest,” he stated, echoing the sentiments that without unity, Africa remains vulnerable to political upheaval.
According to him, the necessity of a collective security approach to safeguard against foreign interventions, reinforcing Dr. Azikiwe’s long-held belief that unity is paramount for Africa’s stability. “Had Zik been alive today, he would likely resonate with the agitations of African youths,” he noted, addressing critical issues such as poverty, unemployment, and corruption.
The lecture drew endorsements from various dignitaries.
Senator Ben Ndi Obi, benefactor of the lecture series, remarked on the importance of keeping Azikiwe’s legacy alive and establishing a platform for discussions that produce informed and accountable leadership.
Professor Uche Azikiwe, the late leader’s wife, called for the establishment of a strong United States of Africa, echoing her husband’s vision for the continent’s development.
Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State urged African leaders to strengthen bilateral relations to tackle challenges collaboratively.
Meanwhile, Anambra State Deputy Governor Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim highlighted the ongoing implementation of Azikiwe’s governance ideologies within the state.
On his part, the Vice Chancellor of Nnamdi Azikiwe University Awka, Professor Benard Odoh, described the lecture series as on discussion that would continue to contribute to the socioeconomic development of the African continent.
The event culminated in a vote of thanks delivered by Professor Uche Ebeze, who praised the lecture series as a pivotal contribution to the socioeconomic advancement of the African continent, Ebeze added, “With discussions centered on unity and developmental strategies, the Zik’s Annual Lecture Series aims to inspire leaders and uphold the transformative legacies of Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe.”
Hauwa M.
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