President Tinubu Urges African Leaders to Combat Talent Exodus and Foster Development
President Bola Tinubu has called on African leaders to take decisive action in addressing the alarming exodus of skilled professionals from the continent. He emphasized the importance of tackling tribalism, recognizing performance, and reforming outdated judicial systems.
During a dinner hosted in his honor at the People’s Palace in Malabo, Equatorial Guinea, President Tinubu stressed that nurturing research and development should be a priority, accompanied by appropriate incentives.
"Why are we facing healthcare challenges if our doctors are seeking opportunities elsewhere? If our nurses are living in poverty, and if our judicial systems are outdated?" Tinubu posed. He argued that Africa’s growth begins with self-reliance and looking inward for solutions.
He condemned tribalism as a hindrance to unity in the region, advocating for collective peace and cooperation. “We must develop our resources for our advancement, focusing sharply on research and development while retaining the results within our continent,” he added.
Acknowledging his visit as a significant milestone for Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, Tinubu expressed gratitude to President Teodoro Mbasogo for the invitation, emphasizing the bond between the two nations. He highlighted the need for Africa to solve its own problems and shift the narrative surrounding the continent.
Tinubu stated, “The perception of Africa as a troubled continent is false. Stability, peace, and democracy are vital for our collective advancement—we have committed to promoting these values together.”
He underscored the urgency of addressing ongoing conflicts, particularly in the Congo and the Sahel region, urging immediate collaborative efforts to achieve sustainable peace. “Development cannot thrive without peace. We must act now to ensure a stable future for Africa,” he remarked.
In a welcoming statement, President Mbasogo expressed appreciation for Tinubu’s visit, highlighting the importance of strengthening collaborative ties between their nations. He reiterated Nigeria’s significance in Equatorial Guinea’s foreign policy and called for enhanced cooperation to tackle piracy, insecurity, and broader challenges such as climate change and food shortages.
Prior to the dinner, both leaders signed an agreement for the Gulf of Guinea gas pipeline project, marking a commitment to deepening their bilateral relations. This initiative aims to bolster energy security and economic stability in the region.
