Obasanjo Advocates Homegrown Solutions for Africa’s Challenges
Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has taken a proactive stance in addressing the numerous challenges facing the African continent.
He believes that these challenges, no matter how daunting, can be overcome by implementing homegrown solutions.
Obasanjo shared his views on this matter during an address to a delegation of students and youth from various African countries at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Ogun state.
Tailored Solutions for Africa’s Unique Issues
Obasanjo emphasized the need for African leaders to consider the unique characteristics and circumstances of their people when formulating solutions to the continent’s problems.
He stressed the importance of pursuing the right approach to seek solutions, emphasizing that no problem in Africa is insurmountable.
Whether it relates to political, economic, social, peace, security, youth unemployment, empowerment, skills acquisition, or governance, Obasanjo believes that with the right mindset, Africans can find effective solutions.
African Solution to African Problems: The Tigray Example
Drawing inspiration from recent events, Obasanjo highlighted a notable instance of what he considers an “African solution to African problems.”
He referenced the successful peace agreement brokered in Tigray, which resolved conflicts between the Tigray Peoples’ Liberation Front (TPLF) and the federal government of Ethiopia.
This achievement, according to Obasanjo, is a testament to the capacity of Africans to address their challenges effectively, as envisioned by leaders since the early days of African independence.
A Visit of Gratitude from African Student Leaders
The delegation that engaged with Obasanjo included student leaders from Ethiopia, specifically the Tigray Region.
They were led by Osisiogu Osikenyi, the President of the All-Africa Students Union (AASU).
These students were visiting to express their gratitude to Obasanjo for his role in facilitating the Permanent Cessation of Hostilities Agreement between the government of the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the TPLF in Pretoria, South Africa, last year.
A Momentous Peace Initiative
Oli Bedane Wako, President of the Ethiopian Higher Education Institutions Students Union (EHEISU), spoke on behalf of the African students’ leaders during their visit.
He highlighted the devastating war in the Tigray region of Ethiopia, which caused immense tragedy, claiming countless lives and causing widespread destruction and trauma.
Wako expressed gratitude for Obasanjo’s pivotal role in saving lives and providing a foundation for the rebuilding of the war-torn region, marking it as a momentous peace initiative.