Africans Forget Past Leaders Who Have Made Significant Contributions – Obasanjo
Former Nigerian President, Olusegun Obasanjo, has expressed concern over the tendency of Africans to forget the contributions of their past leaders. He emphasized that these leaders played crucial roles in the development and progress of their countries but often go unappreciated. Obasanjo made these remarks during an event organized by the Angolan community in Lagos State to commemorate Angola’s 2024 National Founder and Hero’s Day.
Angola's National Founder and Hero’s Day
The annual celebration, held on September 17, honors the birth of Angola’s first president, Dr. Agostinho Neto. Neto, a writer and politician born on September 17, 1922, was a key figure in Angola’s struggle for independence from Portugal. His leadership and contributions to the liberation of Angola continue to inspire many across the African continent. The event is a testament to Angola’s recognition of its historical leaders and the sacrifices they made for national sovereignty.
The Importance of Remembering Past Leaders
Speaking on the theme “Pan-Africanism in the Political Course of Agostinho Neto,” Obasanjo highlighted the critical role that leaders like Neto played not only in their respective countries but also in the broader African context. He lamented that Africans often overlook the achievements of such figures, emphasizing the importance of remembering and appreciating the contributions of past leaders.
“One of the things we tend to do in Africa is forget the past and the leaders who have made numerous contributions that we are enjoying today,” Obasanjo stated. He noted that the benefits Africans enjoy today are often the result of hard-fought struggles and sacrifices made by earlier generations. The former president called for a renewed sense of gratitude towards these leaders and their legacies.
Pan-Africanism: From Ideology to Political Movement
Obasanjo also reflected on the evolution of Pan-Africanism, noting that while it began as a powerful ideology centered on African unity, it gradually shifted into a political movement. This transformation, he argued, led to a neglect of critical economic issues on the continent.
“Pan-Africanism is a movement and ideology that emphasizes solidarity and unity among Africans. Unfortunately, over time, it became more focused on political movements, paying less attention to economic reasons. This is where I see a gap in the Pan-Africanism ideology,” he said.
Obasanjo stressed that while political independence was an important milestone, Africa must now turn its focus to achieving economic freedom. He argued that the continent’s future lies in its ability to harness its economic potential and address the challenges of poverty, inequality, and underdevelopment.
The Path to Economic Freedom
In his address, Obasanjo underscored that Africa's political independence must now be followed by economic liberation. He called on African leaders and citizens alike to prioritize economic development as the next phase of the continent's growth. He noted that while Pan-Africanism successfully united African countries in their struggles for independence, the movement must evolve to address the economic challenges that continue to hinder Africa's progress.
The former president concluded by urging Africans to learn from the past and build on the foundations laid by leaders like Agostinho Neto. He emphasized that the sacrifices made by these leaders should not be forgotten, as they serve as a reminder of what can be achieved when Africans work together toward common goals.
Conclusion
Obasanjo’s reflections offer a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and honoring the contributions of Africa’s past leaders. As the continent continues to navigate its path toward economic freedom, it must not lose sight of the sacrifices and achievements that paved the way for its political independence. By acknowledging the legacy of leaders like Agostinho Neto, Africans can draw inspiration for the continued fight for economic progress and unity across the continent.
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