President Bola Tinubu has called on African countries to deepen trade and economic cooperation within the continent, saying Africa must stop depending heavily on outside economies for growth.
Speaking on Thursday, 14 May, at the Africa CEO Forum Presidential Panel in Kigali, Tinubu said African nations must begin to place the continent’s interests first by building stronger business and investment links among themselves.
According to him, Africa cannot achieve large-scale economic growth by “looking outward first.” He urged governments across the continent to support local businesses, improve trade routes, and create better opportunities for young innovators.
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The Nigerian leader said, “We must invest in one another, trade more with one another, build the corridors that connect our markets, ensure our innovative youthful population get the support they need, and give African businesses the confidence to expand across African borders.”
Tinubu also linked Nigeria’s current economic reforms to a broader continental vision. He said the policies are aimed not only at solving immediate problems but also preparing the country for future leadership in Africa’s economy.
He pointed to the African Continental Free Trade Area (ACFTA), digital trade, shared infrastructure, stronger logistics systems, commodities exchange, and private sector partnerships as critical tools for unlocking growth across the continent.
According to him, Africa has the population and natural resources needed to achieve prosperity if countries work together more closely.
The President also criticised the global financial system when he said international risk and finance structures must treat African countries more fairly and understand the realities facing the continent.
During his remarks, Tinubu praised Paul Kagame for Rwanda’s development strides and hospitality at the forum.
He said Rwanda’s progress shows “what discipline, clarity and execution can do for development.”
Tinubu further pledged that Nigeria would continue working with Rwanda and other African nations to improve regional trade, strengthen economic cooperation, and increase Africa’s competitiveness globally.
He said, “Africa’s future will not be handed to us. We must build it, own it, and defend it together.”
The forum brought together African leaders, investors, and business executives to discuss economic growth, investment, and regional integration across the continent.
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