President Bola Tinubu on Tuesday argued that African States must first be peaceful to ensure coordinated efforts to maximise the myriad developmental opportunities presented to her.
Therefore, he pledged Nigeria’s support to the African Union’s efforts to resolve the pockets of violence and instability in states such as Sudan, Niger, Burkina Faso and Mali, amongst others.
“You can call me at anytime and we will discuss the peace and stability of AU member states…We must be peaceful to take maximum advantage of the developmental opportunities presented to Africa in this era,” Tinubu told his Comoran counterpart also serving as Chairperson of the African Union, Azali Assoumani, when both leaders conferred on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, USA.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, disclosed this in a statement he signed on Monday titled ‘President Tinubu to African Union: Nigeria is behind you and we will not let you fail to secure stability and prosperity for Africa.’
Tinubu asserted that the AU is strategically positioned to secure consensus positions for the continent on economic and socio-political relations with the world.
He said “There is nothing that can bring development and prosperity, outside of embracing freedom and constitutional order.
“It is a critical hallmark of sustainable development. We appreciate that the AU is working hard to bring about peace in the Sahel and is actively negotiating between the warring factions in Sudan.
“Peace in Sudan will be a great achievement. I appreciate your effort in Burkina Faso and our effective cooperation in Niger.”
Emphasising the need for stability and prosperity for the black race, Tinubu described the 21st century as “Africa’s era”.
Consequently, he said “We must build a model of sustainable development…But we must move beyond those whose vision of Africa is narrow and evil.”
“We are not afraid of confrontation, but we prefer to be restrained for now, at this time,” the President declared.
He pledged his country’s commitment to this vision saying “Nigeria will collaborate with you.”
The Chairperson of the African Union, Assoumani, noted that the bloc seeks to complete Nigeria’s effort in securing peace and prosperity in Africa, rather than competing with it.
For the Comoran leader, “It is our responsibility to confront the extra-constitutional wrestling for power on the continent.
“We have told China and Russia that they have a responsibility to ensure that these countries are stable, as there will be no developmental partnership where there is a lack of stability in countries being impacted by coupists.
“We appreciate your stand on these matters.”
Assoumani added that Comoros seeks to learn from Nigeria’s experience concerning the steady improvement in diversity management, electoral officiation and economic growth over many years.
“We want to turn our country into an emerging economy and we need the experience of Nigeria as we seek your cooperation to conduct an election that will win us the respect of the international community and allow us to develop at the right speed and quality,” he emphasised.
President Tinubu also welcomed the Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation, Hissein Taha, reiterating that the Islamic world has a strategic role to play in the sustenance of peace and development in Africa, and across the globe.
“The effort we are making in the Sahel is very important. We know we must double our efforts.
“We must tell our Muslim brothers who are struggling to steal power that only Allah chooses leaders.
“We must respect the will of Allah. I am ready to collaborate with you. Your efforts in supporting agricultural growth and food security through the provision of resources from Islamic banks have been most commendable and our region is appreciative. I am determined to work with you in uplifting Nigerians and Africans,” the President assured.
The leader of the 57-nation body praised Tinubu for his active effort in bringing African states to a place of common understanding.
Taha said “We must gain consensus on the need for peace, especially amongst our member states.
“When you were elected as ECOWAS Chairman, it gave us confidence and hope that the situation in the Sahel region would improve because you are bringing people together.
“We were also happy about your election as President of Nigeria and we see the changes.”
