President Bola Tinubu has called on African nations to harness their resources, people, and capacity for self-development. Speaking on Monday during a meeting with Rwandan President Paul Kagame in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, Tinubu emphasized the importance of intra-African trade and collaboration to drive progress across the continent. The leaders are attending the Abu Dhabi Sustainability Week, held from January 12 to 18.
In a statement shared on his official X handle, Tinubu declared, “Africa has what it takes to develop itself. The time for Africa is now.” He is set to use the summit as a platform to spotlight his administration’s reforms in energy efficiency, transportation, public health, and economic development, aligning these with the event’s theme, “The Nexus of Next: Supercharging Sustainable Progress.”
Tinubu arrived in Abu Dhabi on Sunday at the invitation of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE President. He was warmly received by Sheikh Shakhboot Nahyan Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Accompanying Tinubu were Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, and APC Chairman Dr. Abdullahi Ganduje.
The summit brings together global leaders, policymakers, and business figures to accelerate sustainable development and foster socio-economic progress. Tinubu’s visit will also feature discussions with UAE leadership aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring economic and diplomatic opportunities to benefit both regions.
