President calls for cross-border collaboration and leadership renewal at Millennium Excellence Awards in Ghana
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on Africa’s next generation of leaders across diverse fields—science, technology, education, governance, entrepreneurship, and the arts—to rise with courage and commit themselves to building a united, peaceful, and prosperous continent.
The President made this passionate appeal on Saturday night while addressing dignitaries gathered at the 25th Anniversary of the Millennium Excellence Prize, held at the Manhyia Palace, Kumasi, Ghana.
Tinubu, who was Special Guest of Honour at the event, was represented by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu.
Shaping a Shared Destiny for Africa
Delivering President Tinubu’s message, Ambassador Odumegwu-Ojukwu said the President firmly believes that the younger generation must take responsibility for shaping Africa’s destiny through bold leadership and visionary action.
“Africans must continue to work together in shaping their shared destiny,” she said.
Tinubu emphasized that his administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda is designed to transform lives, promote inclusive economic growth, and firmly position Nigeria as a cornerstone of regional integration and leadership in Africa.
He urged African stakeholders to continue championing values-driven leadership, collaboration across borders, and meaningful investment in the continent’s youth.
“We must inspire excellence, uphold the values of leadership with service, and invest in the youth while championing collaboration across borders,” he stated.
Millennium Excellence Foundation Commended
President Tinubu paid glowing tribute to His Majesty, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the Asantehene and Life Patron of the Millennium Excellence Foundation, for extending the invitation and for consistently hosting a platform that promotes excellence, service, and African pride.
He described the Millennium Excellence Prize, established in 1988, as a beacon of inspiration and recognition, one that resonates deeply with Nigeria’s aspirations and values.
“I salute the visionaries who have nurtured this institution for a quarter of a century,” Tinubu said. “We celebrate the values of honour, integrity, service, and excellence that underpin its work.”
Celebrating African Icons
President Tinubu specifically lauded the Millennium Excellence Foundation for its enduring commitment to identifying and celebrating Africa’s shining lights—individuals whose work and character continue to uplift the continent.
“It is no small achievement to have honoured such illustrious figures as the late Archbishop Desmond Tutu, Professor Wole Soyinka, President Cyril Ramaphosa, and Dr. Mo Ibrahim,” he remarked.
He congratulated both the Foundation and its laureates, past and present, for embodying excellence in their various pursuits.
Nigerians Among Honourees
During the ceremony, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu received the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize on behalf of President Tinubu.
Several other distinguished Nigerians were also honoured at the prestigious event:
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Dr. Benedict Oramah, President and Chairman of the African Export-Import Bank (AFREXIM), received the Global Intra-Africa Trade Excellence in Africa award.
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Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State was honoured with the Lifetime Africa Achievement Prize for Governance and Public Service.
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Alhaji Abdul Samad Rabiu, Founder and Chairman of BUA Group, received recognition for African Excellence in Business.
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Chief Dumo Lulu-Briggs was awarded for African Traditional Leadership and Business Excellence.
Looking Ahead
President Tinubu’s message, delivered on a regional stage, underscored Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to pan-African leadership, youth empowerment, and inclusive development.
“The mission of identifying, celebrating, and supporting those who have distinguished themselves in the pursuit of African development is one that Nigeria fully aligns with,” he stated.
He concluded by encouraging the next generation of Africans to carry forward the continent’s legacy with courage, character, and collaboration.
