The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu CON, has emphasized that for Africa to optimize its abundant natural resources and achieve significant progress in human development, the continent must look inward for solutions, starting with providing the right education for its youth.
She made this statement when she received the Burundian Ambassador to Nigeria, Edouard Nduwimana, at the State House in Abuja.
Addressing the Ambassador, the First Lady said that the solution to Africa’s challenges lies within the continent itself, noting that it is time for African countries to strengthen the bond of brotherhood among themselves for the sake of development on the continent.
She stated that the days of taking Africa’s abundant natural resources for granted are over and called on leaders to work towards empowering and engaging youths in developmental efforts.
“Education is the tool for development, and I thank God that Africa now realizes that the way forward for us is to ensure our youth are educated so that they can secure their rightful place in the marketplace. I also believe that the youth should understand the need to brace themselves up.
When we continue to do what is right for them and also lead by example, we will be able to win our youths over so that they can join us in building the next century.
Africa is a continent God has truly blessed, and I don’t understand why we have mistreated ourselves for so long. Everything they desire in the developed world is already situated in Africa. God has blessed us immensely as a continent, and we should not take this for granted.”
Senator Oluremi Tinubu reiterated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to elevating not only Nigeria but Africa as a whole to its rightful place on the global stage.
“We have a lot of responsibilities in our country, but at the same time, we must ensure that the African continent takes its pride of place among the other continents of the world. A lot has changed in the way we do things; Nigerians are now accountable. We want to bring the respect that Nigeria truly deserves.”
The Burundian Ambassador, Edouard Nduwimana, who spoke through an interpreter, said the visit was to express his country’s appreciation for the First Lady’s interest and support for education.
He acknowledged that while Burundi has experienced its share of crises, the country is now back on the path to peace and progress.
“Burundi is now a stable state, and peace reigns in our country. We have also established a Commission for Peace and Reconciliation, and we are on our way to development thanks to the remarkable leadership of our current president, who has established a vision for 2040 and 2060.”
The Ambassador, who has spent seven months in Nigeria, commended the hospitality and warmth he has enjoyed during his stay in the country.
