President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has urged West African leaders and citizens to embrace the lessons of history and unity as tools to shape a better future for the region. He made this passionate appeal on Wednesday during the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) 50th Anniversary celebration.
Describing the Golden Jubilee as more than a moment of reflection, Tinubu said, “This Golden Jubilee is not merely a celebration of the past, but a summons to shape the future, commanding us to say, let us draw strength from our history, courage from our struggles, and hope from our shared potential.”
He emphasised the importance of unity and collective effort, saying, “In our unity lies our power; in our solidarity, our success. To the people of West Africa, this is your community, your hands, and build it.”
President Tinubu called on citizens, especially the youth, to take ownership of the region’s destiny: “Your effort, your vision, your resilience sustains it. Your dreams will define what it becomes.”
Reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to the regional body, he declared, “Yes, on behalf of the government and the people of Nigeria, I reaffirm our enduring commitment to ECOWAS.”
He also underscored the importance of passing on a worthy legacy to future generations, stating, “To you generations coming, we are here to mentor you, to hand over to you… We want to add a banner without stain to you, the youth of West Africa.”
President Tinubu’s remarks align with his administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, as he noted: “The idea that it [ECOWAS] represents is great for us. It’s very inspiring. It’s part of a renewed hope agenda.”
The ECOWAS summit marked a moment of reflection and recommitment, with Tinubu’s speech emphasising the shared responsibility of West Africans to build a resilient and united future.
