The Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, has called on Africans to break free from mental limitations and realize the continent’s potential.
Speaking at “The King’s Banquet,” a special dinner hosted in his honour at Transcorp Hotel in Abuja on Friday, the traditional ruler emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration among African countries to overcome historical injustices and promote economic growth.
Ogiame Atuwatse III highlighted the significance of Africa’s natural resources and strategic location, urging leaders to harness these advantages for development.
He stated, “God has perfectly positioned this African continent for greatness and success.
Seven great and mighty rivers. Every time I reflect on this, a particular Bible passage comes to mind, originally meant for Ethiopia, but it resonates deeply:
‘Go you swift messengers, to a nation tall and smooth of skin, a nation mighty and conquering, whose land, the two rivers divide.’
“We need to elevate and empower our women. God has given them tremendous ‘birthing’ power. As African men, we should not only tap into this creativity and strength but also encourage, support, and elevate it.
“Africa is perfection: perfect weather, perfect soil, perfect geographical location. As our minds rise to leverage these blessings, we will dominate the world.
“The time is now, the day is here. God’s promise for this continent has long awaited fulfilment, and now, the king has spoken. Tonight, we bury outdated aspects that no longer serve our vision and embrace the new with gladness, gratitude, and thanksgiving.”
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, echoed Ogiame Atuwatse III’s sentiments, condemning the hostile treatment of Africans at borders and advocating for free movement and economic collaboration.
He remarked, “I have had the privilege of travelling to many African countries, and I assure you, you’ll feel at home in any of them because we walk, talk, and act alike. We must embrace each other.
“It pains me greatly to see hostility at African borders. We must learn to appreciate one another.
“We do business with others but not with ourselves. We need to break those barriers. Africans should travel across countries and be welcomed as family. That is the only way we can grow.
“As Africans, we must speak for ourselves. We refuse to be intimidated because we are Africans, the cradle of civilization.”
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, suggested the introduction of a single currency and removal of trade barriers to foster economic integration among African nations.
Nwoko said, “Africa is one continent, divided by Europeans long ago. We have abundant resources but remain perpetually poor.
“The solutions lie in removing border barriers for free movement and developing technologies to manufacture and refine our products.
“We cannot continue exporting raw materials to be processed abroad at high costs. We need a single currency for trade among ourselves.
“We must prioritize our people and cultivate benevolent leaders.”
Former First Lady Patience Jonathan emphasized the importance of peace and unity for sustainable development, advocating for grassroots sensitization to promote African values and a shared identity.
She stated, “We are here to promote a positive narrative about Africa, blessed with professionals and talented people.
“This potential must be harnessed for growth and development. Unfortunately, Africa has been branded as a continent of conflicts.
“But without peace, there can be no sustainable development. We must sensitize our people to embrace peace and focus on unity.
“Sensitization should start from the grassroots. Public-private partnerships are key to Africa’s development, impacting sectors such as power, education, and transportation.
“With rich human and natural resources, the Africa we envision can become a wonder to the world.”
The banquet also emphasized empowering African women, reclaiming the continent’s narrative, and promoting cultural heritage.
The event brought together dignitaries, including lawmakers, ministers, and traditional rulers. Distinguished personalities were honored for their contributions to Africa’s development, including Pa Sam Amuka-Pemu, Founder and Chairman of Vanguard Newspapers.
The banquet’s outcomes are expected to inform policy decisions and initiatives aimed at promoting African unity, economic growth, and cultural revival.
