In a bold move towards Africa’s economic self-determination, President Bola Tinubu recently advocated for stronger ties between African countries aimed at ending the exportation of raw minerals and instead fostering value addition. The call to action came during an address in Abuja on September 22nd, as reported by both Vanguard News and THISDAYLIVE.
According to a Vanguard News article, President Tinubu urged African nations to collaborate more closely in order to break the cycle of exporting unprocessed minerals, which have long been exploited by foreign interests. He emphasized that Africa’s mineral wealth should serve the continent’s people first and foremost.
THISDAYLIVE similarly reported on Tinubu’s remarks, stating that he charged the continent to start profiting from its own resources instead of continuing the historical trend of exporting wealth. The President argued that Africa’s future must be shaped by its mineral resources while making room for the continent’s ambition.
It is unclear at this time what specific steps will be taken to implement Tinubu’s proposed alliance, and it remains to be seen whether other African leaders will follow suit. Nonetheless, the President’s call for cooperation in maximizing Africa’s mineral wealth represents a significant step towards economic self-determination on the continent.
By
