President Bola Tinubu has called on the next generation of Africans to rise with courage and play an active role in building a united, peaceful, and prosperous continent through advancements in science, technology, education, governance, entrepreneurship, and the arts.
Speaking as the special guest of honour at the 25th Anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize on Saturday night at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana, President Tinubu — represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu — emphasized the importance of collective effort in shaping Africa’s shared destiny.
He highlighted that Nigeria’s Renewed Hope Agenda is focused on transforming lives, promoting inclusive growth, and positioning the country as a cornerstone of regional integration and leadership. He urged participants to continue inspiring excellence, upholding values of leadership through service, investing in youth, and strengthening cross-border collaboration.
The President expressed appreciation to the Life Patron of the Millennium Excellence Foundation, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, Asantehene, for hosting the distinguished gathering and extending an invitation to Nigeria. Tinubu commended the Foundation’s long-standing mission of identifying, celebrating, and supporting individuals who have made significant contributions to African development — a mission he said resonates strongly with the aspirations of Nigeria and other African nations.
“I salute the visionaries who have nurtured this institution for a quarter of a century and celebrate the values of honour, integrity, service, and excellence that underpin its work,” Tinubu stated.
He also applauded the Foundation for recognising African icons such as the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Professor Wole Soyinka, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Dr. Mo Ibrahim, among others, whose lives and work have inspired generations across the continent.
Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu accepted the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize on behalf of President Tinubu. Other distinguished Nigerians honoured at the event included Dr. Benedict Oramah, President/Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM) — recognised for Global Intra-Africa Trade Excellence; Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno — awarded the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize for Governance and Public Service; Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder/Chairman of BUA Group — honoured for African Excellence in Business; and Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs — recognised for African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence.
