President Bola Tinubu has urged young Africans to lead with courage and creativity to build a stronger and united continent.
He said they must contribute meaningfully to areas such as science, technology, education, governance, business, and the arts.
“Africa’s future rests in the hands of our young people. They must rise to the task with bold ideas,” he said.
President Tinubu made this call as the special guest of honour at the 25th Anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize. The ceremony took place on Saturday night at the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi, Ghana.
The President was represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
“We must keep working together to shape our shared future,” she said while delivering his speech.
She noted that Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aims to transform lives, support inclusive growth, and position Nigeria as a leader in Africa.
“Nigeria is committed to being a pillar of regional unity and growth,” she stated.
Celebrating African Greatness
Tinubu praised the Millennium Excellence Foundation and its Life Patron, His Majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, for organizing the event and extending the invitation.
He called the ceremony a platform that consistently rewards exceptional Africans. The Millennium Excellence Prize has been awarded since 1988.
“This event stands as a beacon of honour and recognition across Africa,” Tinubu said.
“Its mission of celebrating excellence in African development aligns with Nigeria’s goals and the continent’s shared vision,” he added.
The President expressed admiration for the Foundation’s commitment to celebrating values like integrity, service, and leadership.
“I salute the visionaries who built this institution and thank them for promoting Africa’s best,” he said.
He also praised past laureates who have brought pride to the continent.
“Honouring names like Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Wole Soyinka, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Dr. Mo Ibrahim is no small feat,” he stated.
“These individuals have inspired generations and uplifted Africa through their work,” he said.
Nigeria’s Presence at the Event
President Tinubu congratulated the organisers, past winners, and the Foundation’s leadership.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu received the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize on Tinubu’s behalf.
Millennium Excellence Awards 2025 was highly successful 💎 Thanks to His Majesty the Asantehene. #millenniumexcellenceawards2025 pic.twitter.com/wjLYLAnXa5
— The Asante Nation (@Asante_nation) May 9, 2025
Several other Nigerians were recognised at the event for their outstanding impact:
- Dr. Benedict Oramah, President of AFREXIM Bank, won the Global Intra-Africa Trade Excellence in Africa Award.
- Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State received the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize for Governance and Public Service.
- Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, Chairman of BUA Group, received the African Excellence in Business award.
- Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs was awarded for African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence.
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