Nigeria Can Drive Africa’s Economic Transformation, Says Ojukwu

By Ifeyinwa Ike

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Ojukwu, said Nigeria is determined to remain a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation and continental integration.

Speaking in Abuja at an Africa Day event, the minister said the Tinubu administration would continue to pursue policies that promote sustainable development and regional cooperation.

“Africa Day is far more than a ceremonial observance,” she said, adding that it is a powerful symbol of the enduring vision and courage of our founding fathers.

Ojukwu stressed that African unity remains central to the continent’s progress. “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 also said water access must become a top priority across the continent. “Water is life and central to human survival, public health, food production, industrial growth, energy generation, and environmental sustainability,” the minister noted.

Ojukwu warned that millions of Africans still lack reliable access to clean water and sanitation, saying that the challenge threatens lives, livelihoods and economic development.

She called for stronger regional cooperation, investment in resilient infrastructure and the use of technology to improve water management.

The minister said Africa must also protect its cultural identity, adding that culture remains a vital instrument for peace-building, regional integration, and sustainable development