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Nigeria to submit backlog reports on child rights to UN, AU – Official

By Aderogba George

The Federal Government says it is working to submit backlog of reports on the rights of Nigerian Children to the United Nations and Africa Union Expert Committee on the rights of African children.

Dr MacJohn Nwaobiala, Co-Chairman, National Child Rights Implementation Committee (NCRIC), disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria in Abuja.

Nwabiola who spoke on the sidelines of the 9th quarterly meeting of the NCRIC, said Nigeria was yet to submit four reports (5th to 8th reports) to the UN and AU bodies.

On the reasons for the backlog, he said that the NCRIC was not functional between 2010 and 2018, there was no budget line for the committee and meetings were not held due to some administrative challenges.

“We are working assiduously with all partners to ensure that these reports are completed. Members are making input so that we can fast track the process.

“Although the process of preparing these reports is demanding, but our target for the submission of the reports is by the first quarter of 2025.

“We are going to be linking up with the states, zones, NGOs, individuals and organisations.

“One of the things we are going to be doing shortly is to ensure publications both in the print media, electronic media calling for input in all the sectors for these reports” he said.

Nwaobiala pledged that NCRIC would work to ensure that Nigeria did not default again in the submission of child right situation reports.

Speaking on the meeting, Mrs Nkiru Maduechesi, Child Protection Specialist, United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) said they assessed progress in terms of child rights implementation in Nigeria.

She said that almost all the 36 states in Nigeria have implemented the Child Rights Act (CRA) in their various states

“It is good to know that all the 36 states have enacted the child rights law and. structures are in place across the states,

“We have the specialised police unit, the family court in some states who are putting in place efforts towards child protection.

“However, a lot still needs to be done in terms of public financing of social services pertaining to child’s rights in Nigeria.

“A lot still needs to be done in making child protection and child’s rights a priority, because by guaranteeing the rights of children, we are guaranteeing the future of Nigeria.

“Right now, there are large number of children who are still out of school, the Universal Health Coverage (UHC) is not yet universal across the state and there is high violent rate against children,” she stressed.

Maduechesi, however appreciated government’s efforts adding that UNICEF would support the effort of government to ensure the wellbeing and rights of children are guaranteed in Nigeria. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Rotimi Ijikanmi

General News

Sudan war: AU restates its position against external interference

By Fortune Abang

The African Union (AU) has restated its position against external interferences in the Sudan war situation.

Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Chair, AU High-Level Panel of the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan (HLP-Sudan), stated this in a telephone interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday.

Chambas, also AU High Representative for Silencing the Guns, spoke on the outcome of the first phase of the preparatory meeting of the Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue that started from July 10 to 15, in Addis Ababa.

According to him, the dialogue organised for stakeholders of the AU and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) sought to peacefully resolve the armed conflict situation in Sudan.

Chambas said, “the danger of any of these plans, of course is that outside interference is always a factor that is why Sudanese must also put supreme interest of their country over any other consideration.

“Otherwise, the longer this conflict lasts the more you will see external interference multiply that can only lead to detriment of Sudan, as they seek diverse interest rather than Sudanese people.

“The AU and IGAD have severally called for end to external interference, which fuels the war; if the belligerent of Sudan really want to be helpful, they should be providing assistance.

“They should provide for the vulnerable Sudanese population, not sending weapons and other war materials which only lead to more sufferings, more killings and more destruction of Sudan.

“AU’s position is non-interference by outsiders that fuels the war and leads to more armament to belligerents. AU calls for end to external assistance to the belligerent which only prolongs the war.”

Chambas, a former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and Head of the UN Office for West Africa (UNOWA), promised to meet Sudanese stakeholders unable to participate in the dialogue.

He said the next phase of the meeting would be held with Taqqadum, SLM Abdul Wahid, SPLM-North-Al Hilu, the Radical Bloc and other Sudanese political and civil actors unable to attend the meeting.

He mentioned others to include Sudan Liberation Movement, Abdul Wahid, Sudan People’s Liberation Movement, El Hilo, and then what is called the Radical Bloc, and Addis, for similar consultations in Addis Ababa.

“We believe political and civilian actors can also play role to get the belligerent groups to stop the fighting, because right now the fighting is done by the army and the rebel Rapid Support Forces.

“We have not brought these belligerent groups to the dialogue process yet, because the ceasefire talks are a different track, which is supposed to convene in Jeddah.

“We believe the political talk is important to mobilise political class, civil society, Sudanese youth, women professional groups, that way they would have set the view of all the important stakeholders.

“Specifically, set a small team of all the representatives who will constitute the planning committee for the all-inclusive, comprehensive Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue.

“By so doing we can have inclusive process with no one left behind, when we bring all the actors together,” he added.

He said bringing stakeholders together would enable the participants set agenda and timing of the political dialogue that they would determine themselves, in conformity with the principle of Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led process.

“There can be no military solution, this has to be political, therefore to be dialogue of all Sudanese actors in a process that has commenced and this has been on since past five days.

“We are quite satisfied with the outcome of the consultations, because the group we met here has come up with 17 recommendations, which will guide on proper ways to have successful inclusive Sudanese dialogue.

“This includes issues on what agenda should be, who should participate, transitional justice, what kind of government to have, security sector and reform programme for youth and women,” he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

General News

AU, IGAD urge end to Sudan war

By Fortune Abang

The African Union (AU) and the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD) have urged Sudanese political and civilian actors to put supreme interests in their country above other considerations.

They also urged Sudanese people to work closely together to end the war and return their country to normalcy.

Dr Mohamed Ibn Chambas, Chair, AU High-Level Panel of the Resolution of the Conflict in Sudan (HLP-Sudan), spoke at the closing of the preparatory five-day meeting of the Inter-Sudanese Political Dialogue in Addis Ababa.

Chambas, also AU High Representative for Silencing the Guns, highlighted the outcome of the meeting held to peacefully resolve the ongoing armed conflict in Sudan.

He said that the participants of the meeting presented 17 recommendations on a number of critical issues to be considered at any inter-Sudanese political dialogue.

“The 17-recommendations pertain to issues such as ending the war, humanitarian access to relief suffering Sudanese population, inclusivity of the dialogue, agenda, transitional justice, form of transitional governance.

“I should emphasis recommendations put forth by participants in this meeting; we expect other Sudanese and civil actors to be convened next; and also, make recommendations on the convening inter-Sudanese dialogue.

“IGAD and AU urge all Sudanese political and civilian actors to put supreme interests of their country above other considerations in working together to end the war and return to normalcy.

“IGAD and AU would like to reiterate our commitment, and determination to accompany Sudanese stakeholders in their endeavors, to reaching negotiated and consensual solution to the current crisis.”

Chambas, a former Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General for West Africa and Head of the UN Office for West Africa (UNOWA), described the meeting as one in a series of consultations.

According to him, the meeting is one in a series of consultations that will be held with other Sudanese political and civil actors who were not able to participate this time.

“It will be followed by consultation with Taqqadum, SLM Abdul Wahid, SPLM-North-Al Hilu, the Radical Bloc and other Sudanese political and civil actors unable to attend the meeting.

“We shall also continue to engage women, youth, professional groups, traditional authorities.

“We will then envision bringing together representatives of all stakeholders to constitute a planning committee for the comprehensive, inclusive Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue.

“The agenda, participants and timing of the political dialogue shall be determined by Sudanese themselves in conformity with the principle of a Sudanese-owned and Sudanese-led process,’’ he said.

He commended the participants for responding to the invitation by IGAD and AU, saying their recommendation was important to ending the war, tackling humanitarian situation in Sudan and returning the country to peace.

Chambas promised to bring together all stakeholders to constitute planning committee for inclusive Sudanese-Sudanese dialogue in the country, said to be one of the founding Member States of the AU and IGAD.

Highpoint of discussion at the meeting by the stakeholders of AU Commission, IGAD and international organisations was Sudanese-ownership and Sudanese-leadership, inclusiveness and reconciliation among others. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

General News

AU 2063 Assembly urges policy, Tech investment for Africa’s growth

By Justina Auta

The African Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly has advocated for implementing policies and investing in technology to enhance global competitiveness and sustainable economic growth in Africa.

Stephen Benjoel, Chairperson of the assembly, made this call at a press briefing on Monday in Abuja to commemorate the 2024 African Union Day celebration with the theme “Educating an African Fit for the 21st Century.”

Benjoel noted the importance of the African Union Agenda 2063, aimed at achieving inclusive and sustainable development across Africa.

“We recognise that Africa’s biggest challenge has been the implementation of policies. To address this, we are working diligently with various governments and stakeholders.

“Our approach includes data gathering, providing awards and honors, securing strategic funding through international and regional partners, and escalating critical issues to ensure progress.

“Our goal is not just to be diplomats but to dignify Africa and elevate our continent to new heights,” he said.

He also announced that the assembly would confer the investiture of Ambassadors on July 24-25 to align the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current government with the African Union Agenda 2063.

“We believe that through total literacy and education, we can empower Africans to compete globally and achieve our collective goals,” he added.

Dr Mustapha Adeolu, Director General of the Chartered Institute of Information and Strategy, emphasised the need for Nigeria to reduce its reliance on minerals and invest more in technology to keep pace with developed nations.

“There is a need for us to bring in technology. Our universities should start offering courses that provide better education for future Africans, such as artificial intelligence, data mining, and data thinking.

“These courses can shape Africa and take us to where we want to be by 2063. Our universities should add value to students so they stop graduating as job seekers and become job creators,” he said.

Joseph Ibeh, Clerk of the Assembly, highlighted that Nigeria has capable and smart human capital that can transform the continent’s challenges into sustainable economic growth.

“That is why we are striving to get it right. Our youths are derailing because we adopt things that are not African, and we try to become them.

“Africans need to understand the importance of educating themselves for the 21st century to meet the goals and aspirations of the AU Agenda 2063,” he said.

Ms. Amarachikwu Tecula-Orakwe, Head of Communication and Public Relations at the African School of Diplomacy & International Affairs, said the awardees would serve as ambassadors of the assembly.

“The idea is to confer ambassadorial titles on individuals based on their achievements in various industries. They will join us in driving the AU Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Halima Sheji

Metro

Economy: Tinubu to attend 5th Arab-African Summit

 

By Ismail Abdulaziz

President Bola Tinubu is to attend the Arab-African and Saudi-Africa summits holding this week in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, disclosed this on Sunday while briefing State House Correspondents in Abuja.

He said that the attendance of president was predicated on the administration’s drive to use all avenues to attract Foreign Direct Investment into the various sectors of the economy.

‘’The president will use the summit to attract Foreign Direct Investment into the country. The two summits will surely yield tangible economic benefits for the country and Africa.

He added that the president would be aggressive, like in all other of his engagements, in attracting genuine foreign investors into different sectors of the economy.

The Arab-African Summit is aimed at establishing practical solutions for developing Arab-African cooperation and catching up with the emerging and influential international powers in African.

The summit seeks to identify fields for cooperation, build a common vision for sharing knowledge and experience, and identify projects and frameworks for improving bilateral and multilateral ties between Arab and African countries.

‘’In light of the geostrategic shifts unfolding in the international system, Arab countries are collectively and diligently seeking to diversify their strategic partners.

‘’This effort has created opportunities for establishing promising strategic partnerships in several fields with many actors in the international community,’’ Dr Khalid Manzalawi, Assistant Secretary-General for International Political Affairs of the League of Arab States, said at a meeting in Cairo in October.

Some of the objectives of the Summit include reinvigoration of the Arab-African Relations, addressing issues relating to conflicts and counter-terrorism as well as tackling challenges such as poverty, education, health, food security, developmental matters, debt crises, and global challenges like climate change, migration, and humanitarian aid.

The Summit was last held in 2016.

Ngelale said that detailed briefing would be made in the course of the various meetings by the president with investors, which are relevant to the economic rejuvenation of the country.

He said that the president would be accompanied to the summit by cabinet members, the business community as well as other relevant government functionaries.(NAN)

Edited by Buhari Bolaji

Foreign

President Tinubu assures AU, OIC of Nigeria’s support

By Ismail Abdulaziz

President Bola Tinubu says the African Union (AU) is strategically positioned to secure consensus positions for the continent on economic and socio-political relations with the world.

The president, in a bilateral discussion with the President of the Union of Comoros and Chairperson of the AU, President Azali Assoumani, on Monday in New York, said this is possible with Nigeria’s strong of the continental body.

“There is nothing that can bring development and prosperity, outside of embracing freedom and constitutional order. It is a critical hallmark of sustainable development.

‘’We appreciate that the AU is working hard to bring about peace in the Sahel and is actively negotiating between the warring factions in Sudan. Peace in Sudan will be a great achievement. I appreciate your effort in Burkina Faso and our effective cooperation on Niger.

“You can call me at any time and we will discuss the peace and stability of AU member states. We need stability and prosperity for the black race.

‘’This is our era. We must be peaceful in order to take maximum advantage of the developmental opportunities presented to Africa in this era. We must build a model of sustainable development.

‘’Nigeria will collaborate with you. But we must move beyond those whose vision of Africa is narrow and evil. We are not afraid of confrontation, but we prefer to be restrained for now, at this time,” the President declared.

Assoumani said that the AU seeks to complete Nigeria’s effort in securing peace and prosperity in Africa, rather than competing with it.

“It is our responsibility to confront the extra-constitutional wrestling for power on the continent.

‘’We have told China and Russia that they have a responsibility to ensure that there is stability in these countries, as there will be no developmental partnership where there is a lack of stability in countries being impacted by coupists.

‘’We appreciate your stand on these matters,” the AU Chairperson said.

As President of the Union of Comoros, the AU Chairperson said that Comoros seeks to learn from Nigeria’s experience concerning the steady improvement in diversity management, electoral process and economic growth over many years.

“We want to turn our country into an emerging economy and we need the experience of Nigeria as we seek your cooperation to conduct an election that will win us the respect of the international community and allow us to develop at the right speed and quality,” he said.

Tinubu also met with the Secretary-General of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), Hissein Brahim Taha, and reiterated that the Islamic world has a strategic role to play in the sustenance of peace and development in Africa, and across the globe.

“The effort we are making in the Sahel is very important. We know we must double our efforts. We must tell our Muslim brothers who are struggling to steal power that only Allah chooses leaders. We must respect the will of Allah.

‘’I am ready to collaborate with you. Your effort in supporting agricultural growth and food security through the provision of resources from Islamic banks has been most commendable and our region is appreciative.

‘’I am determined to work with you in uplifting Nigerians and Africans,” the President said.

The leader of the 57-nation body of cooperation praised the Nigerian President for his active effort in bringing African states to a place of common understanding.

“We must gain consensus on the need for peace, especially amongst our member states.

‘’When you were elected as ECOWAS Chairman, it gave us confidence and hope that the situation in the Sahel region would improve because you are bringing people together.

‘’We were also happy about your election as President of Nigeria and we see the changes,” the OIC leader stated.

The OIC Secretary-General extended an invitation to Tinubu to participate at the OIC Heads of State Summit, expected to hold in a few months. (NAN)

Edited by Folasade Adeniran

Science & Tech

Nigeria, other AU countries collaborate to address environmental challenges

By Ijeoma Olorunfemi

Nigeria and 39 other AU countries on Monday collaborate to ameliorate environmental issues bedeviling the continent using Earth Observation Satellite data for policy making.

The countries gathered in Abuja for the second edition of the Global Monitoring for Environment and Security (GMES) and Western Africa Regional Exchange workshop under African Union Commission.

The three-day workshop was being organised by the National Space Research and Development Agency (NASRDA) in collaboration with University of Ghana and Centre de Suivi Écologique de Kenya (CSE-Environmental Monitoring Centre).

Dr Halilu Shaba, Director-General of NASRDA, said the workshop gathered experts to evaluate areas of insecurity and monitoring of the environment.

Shaba said that insecurity was a common problem among African countries and Earth Observation (EO) had been able to provide data to monitorthe movements of bandits.

In the area of environmental sustainability, Shaba said that in 2022, the agency provided maps of areas that were flooded.

“We have done so much in the area of flood, what we are trying to do now is bring other African countries to speed, they may not have the capacity, facilities to deal with this.

“Nigeria for over 15 years have been serving as the regional support office for UN-SPIDER and UN-SPIDER activates chatter anytime there is flood.

“We have been doing so much but we need to engage in advocacy with actors that are managing these disasters,’’ he said.

Dr Tidiane Ouattara, Programme Coordinator for GMES and Africa, said the workshop served as crucial platform for collaboration, knowledge sharing and fostering regional partnerships.

Ouattara said it was through such gatherings that the continent strengthened its collective commitment towards sustainable development and the protection of invaluable natural resources as stated in the AU Agenda of 2063.

“It is through collaboration, knowledge exchange, and cross-fertilisation of ideas that we can collectively tackle complex environmental issues.

“We encourage active participation and partnership from all stakeholders present here today and beyond, as we strive to build a sustainable and resilient Africa,’’ he said.

The programme coordinator recognised inputs from different stakeholders engaged in GMES, saying that AU commission placed great importance to their services.

Ouattara said: ”We expect them to serve as catalysts for transformative action, empowering member states, specifically the beneficiary end-users to make informed decisions that positively impact our environment, economy and society at large.

“By harnessing the knowledge and resources offered by these services, we can address the pressing challenges we face, such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and sustainable development.”

Ouattara also said the AU was committed to gender equality and inclusivity, adding that it underscored dedication to promoting equitable opportunities, empowering women in environmental conservation and sustainable development.

He added: “We want to hear from our Western African GMES and Africa stakeholders, the concrete actions and the way forward with respect to human capital development and utilisation.

“We are here today because someone, yesterday, gave us our chance when we were students, looking for our first job, hence we should give more opportunities to our youths for the better future of Africa.’’

Dr Cheikh Mbow, Director-General of CSE, said the risks relating to the African environment were an impediment to continental development.

Mbow said that GMES was trying to take profit from modern technology like Artificial Intelligence, satellite data, new algorithms and big data analysis.

According to him, this will help to bring the evidence and device ways to invest in environmentally sustainable development.

He added that the workshop was held in Nigeria because it was the hub for human capacity and it is playing a frontline role in the climate change area, among other areas.

According to him, Nigeria will help champion the course of mitigating environmental challenges.

Other goodwill messages were made by Dr Benjamin Botwe from University of Ghana and Dr Matthew Adepoju, Director, Strategic Space Application of NASRDA. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani

Foreign , General News

AU suspends Niger until restoration of constitutional order

The African Union (AU) Commission has on Tuesday suspended Niger from the pan-African bloc until normal constitutional order is restored in the country following the latest military coup.

The decision to suspend Niger from AU membership was made by the Peace and Security Council of the AU Commission during its latest meeting that dwelt upon the situation in the western African country, AU said in a statement.

The council decided “to immediately suspend the participation of Niger from all activities of the AU and its organs and institutions until the effective restoration of constitutional order in the country.”

It reiterated its “unequivocal condemnation” of the military coup that took place on July 26 in Niger, which resulted in the ousting of democratically elected President Mohamed Bazoum by a faction of military officers.

The council reaffirmed its full solidarity with the efforts of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) in its continued commitment to the restoration of constitutional order through diplomatic means.

“The council strongly rejected any external interference by any actor or any country outside the continent in the peace and security affairs in Africa.

“It also rejects engagements by private military companies in the continent in line with the 1977 OAU Convention for the Elimination of Mercenarism in Africa, the statement said.

The Organisation of African Unity (OAU) was the predecessor of the AU.

It urged the military to place the supreme interests of Niger and its people above all else and to immediately and unconditionally return to the barracks, and submit to civilian authorities consistent with the constitution of Niger.

The council also reiterated its deep concern over the resurgence of military coups as it undermines democracy, peace, security and stability, as well as development in the continent, the statement added.  (Xinhua/NAN)

Edited by Ummul Idris/Ekemini Ladejobi

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General News

Deciding African peace, stability through adherence to democratic tenets

Deciding African peace, stability through adherence to democratic tenets

 

A news analysis by Emmanuel Oloniruha, News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)

The 2023 Democratic Index  annual report of the  Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) released in February rated Norway, New Zealand, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Denmark, Ireland, Taiwan, Australia, and Canada respectively,  as the 10 most democratic countries in the world.

Of the 167 rated countries, Nigeria came 106, Niger Republic-124, North Korea-164, Democratic Republic of the Congo-162, Syria-163, Myanmar-165, while Afghanistan came last.

Unarguably, democracy as a form of government is identified as the best platform for achieving peace, equality, justice, inclusion and sustainable development.

Though many countries across the world have embraced democracy, not all democracies are the same. While some nations operate full or flawed democracy, others practice either hybrid or authoritarian regime.

According to the Democracy Index, “a myriad of democratic sub-types exist, including constitutional democracy, green democracy, demarchy, illiberal democracy, industrial democracy, and more.

Notwithstanding the type of democracy being practice by a country, multiple theories identified specific elements required for a government to qualify as a democracy.

Some of these elements include a pluralistic system of at least two legitimate-but-different political parties coexist; a free and fair electoral process; open and transparent government with respect for rule of law and proper checks and balances; civil liberties; as well as free and independent media.

To a Stanford University political scientist, Larry Diamond, any democracy must possess four key elements.

“A political system for choosing and replacing the government through free and fair elections; active participation of the citizens in politics and civic life; protection of the human rights of all citizens; and a rule of law in which the laws and procedures apply equally to all citizens.”

As many countries are working hard to improve their elections and deepen the roots of democracy, the issue of leadership failure and its impact on democracy in Africa continent has continue to be subject of discussion.

More attention is being paid to the continent due to recent political tension confronting its democracy that manifested in Sudan, Ethiopia, Libya, Chad, Mali, Guinea, Burkina Faso and recent removal of a democratic government by the military in Niger Republic.

Political scientists and analysts believe that in many African countries today, the essential values of democracy such as the rule of law, separation of powers and constitutional term limits are no longer adhered to.

The situation, they argued, posed a threat to the survival of democracy in Africa, as the promises of peace, justice, and human freedoms are daily betrayed.

To a political analyst, Mr Jide Ojo, the recent political instabilities in any of the African countries could not be divorced from lack of good governance caused by leaders.

Ojo listed some of the factors that contributed to political instability in the continent to include situations where leaders emerged through disputed elections and do not keep to their campaign promises, altered their countries’ constitutions to sit tight in power or even try to gag the media and civil society groups.

“Even the recent coup in Niger Republic, it was because there was disputed election and the non-delivery of campaign promises.

“If you look at the issue of political instability in Africa, it’s majorly due to the way and manner in which we have practice our democracy. Some African countries will call its home ground democracy.

“What is home grown democracy when there are universal standard that provides for one man one vote; respect for the constitution and rule of law, due process and independent democratic institutions?’’ he asked.

Ojo said that for Africa democracy to be stabilised there must not be interference of the executive in the works of judiciary and legislative arms of government, the media must also be independent and vibrant, while the political parties must hold dear the principle of party internal democracy.

“If they are going to rectify the situation of political instability in Africa, leaders in the continent have to ensure that there is rule of law, which run on three principles; supremacy of the law, equality before the law and the observant of fundamental human rights.

“Leaders have to follow due process, do things in accordance with laid down principles. There should not be abuse of power. They must do away with culture of impunity.

“Once all of these are in place, I can tell you there will be political stability, weather in Africa or at the global community,’’ Ojo said.

He added that to reverse the ugly trend of political instability, the Africa Union (AU) must make it mandatory for countries in the continent to follow rule of law.

Ojo said that AU must also enforce the independence of institutions of democracy, such as political parties, electoral management body, the judiciary, the legislative assembly, and the media.

To former President Goodluck Jonathan who has been involved in the process of promoting democracy across Africa, since he left office in 2015, democracy thrives when leaders respect the rule of law and prioritize the interest of their citizens.

Jonathan, who is the Chairman of West Africa Elders Forum (WAEF), has at different fora urged African leaders to adhere to the rule of law and prioritise equality and justice in order to safeguard democracies in the continent.

The former president while receiving ‘African Democracy and Peace Icon Award’ at the maiden edition of the African Heritage Concert and Awards, in Kigali, capital of Rwanda, in April, urged African leaders to prioritise service to their people.

According to Jonathan, for a nation to grow, leaders at various points must deliberately make the necessary sacrifice that promote patriotism, inspire devotion and spur citizens to do their best for their country.

“The duty of leaders is to run their countries properly and efficiently, and not to dehumanize human beings and make their lives difficult,” he said.

Jonathan, also speaking at a one year memorial summit in honour of Late Dr Idahosa Okunbo in August 2022, said that Africa leaders must worry about the depth of their footprints, leadership style and the kind of legacies they are leaving behind.

“The essence of leadership is to drive initiatives that seek to build sustainable societies and make the lives of the people better and more meaningful.

“Every political leader should, in a moment of introspection, spare a thought for the legacy he or she would leave behind.

“Will you be remembered as a deceitful leader, an ethnic bigot, religious fanatic or a nation builder that would leave lasting legacies for the people?’’ he asked

Jonathan added that anybody aspiring to public office should first articulate his own vision and philosophy of leadership.

Also delivering a lecture at the 2nd Kenneth Kaunda Memorial Public Lecture in Pretoria, South Africa, Jonathan said there was need to redefine leadership and governance process in Africa to address contemporary challenges facing the continent.

Jonathan said while scholars may adduce a number of reasons to current major conflicts and undemocratic governments in a number of African States, recent development shows that leadership has become a major source of conflicts and wars in most of Africa countries.

“The leadership recruitment process and our inability to effectively manage political transitions have resulted in avoidable conflicts.

“Elections in some countries have become a source of instability, largely reflecting the kind of leaders we have in authority,’’ he said.

Jonathan said that Africa needed a leadership process that guarantees the fundamental freedoms and rights of the citizens and delivers a good life to them.

“We need to build and protect our political systems to serve the best interest of our people. We must learn how to manage our diversity and build an inclusive society,” Jonathan added.

To President Bola Tinubu, it was regrettable that West Africa, in spite of its numerous instruments and mechanisms for promoting democracy and good governance, is leading other regions in the use of unconstitutional means to change governments.

Tinubu stated at a high-level event organised by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on the margins of 5th Mid-Year African Union (AU) Coordination Meeting in Nairobi, Kenya in July, called on African leaders to respect democracy, rule of law, and ensure political stability.

Tinubu, who is the Chairperson of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), warned that the ugly trend of the military straying into the political arena is causing threats to peace, security and stability, and engendering poverty, displacement, and humanitarian crises.

The President, represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Mr Adamu Ibrahim Lamuwa, said that the ugly trend has also led to food shortages and escalated health challenges.

“We therefore must take deliberate steps to address the root causes of unconstitutional changes and coups d’état in Africa.

“As a continent, we cannot make progress toward achieving the goals and targets of the UN Agenda 2030 for sustainable development, as well as those of AU Agenda 2063 for the Africa We Want,’’ Tinubu said.

While acknowledging that democracy may present challenges in terms of management and dynamics, Tinubu said that it however remain the best form of government for 21st century Africa.

To the Executive Director of Goodluck Jonathan Foundation (GJF), Ms Ann Iyonu and many other stakeholders, African leaders have key role to play to safeguard democracies in the continent through the adherence to the rule of law and delivery of good governance.

“To safeguard our democracies from further recession and attacks, we call in governments to deliver on the promises of good governance, and prioritize free and credible elections and guarantee the rights of all citizens.

“Democracy flourishes in an atmosphere of peace, freedom and justice. This is the route we should follow to shore up our democracies and make democracy meaningful to all citizens,’’ Iyonu said.(NANFeatures)

*** If used, if credit the writer and the News Agency of Nigeria(NAN).