Benin City, the Edo State capital, played host to a gathering of African leaders on Thursday as they convened for the 2024 Democracy Day Dialogue. This significant event focused on addressing the challenges that impede the effectiveness of education systems across the continent and sought actionable strategies to foster both growth and development.
Hosted at the esteemed Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and Soundstage, the dialogue was an initiative of the Goodluck Jonathan Foundation, established by the former Nigerian President in 2015 to serve as a policy incubator.
The assembly featured a distinguished roster of attendees, including Nigeria’s Education Minister, Mamman Tahir; former Vice President Namadi Sambo; past Presidents Boni Yayi of the Benin Republic and Uhuru Kenyatta of Kenya; Zambia’s ex-Vice President Dr. Nevers-Sekwila Mumba; and deputy governors from Bauchi and Bayelsa States, among other prominent figures from the African landscape.
Governor Godwin Obaseki inaugurated the session, highlighting Africa’s pivotal juncture and the continent’s youthful demographic eager for success. He emphasized the relevance of the theme, “Functional Education and Effective Political Leadership as a Panacea to Africa’s Growth and Development,” underscoring its significance in propelling progress and laying the onus on Africa’s political leadership.
Obaseki extended his accolades to former President Jonathan for his pivotal role in preserving Nigeria’s unity through his gracious acceptance of the 2015 general election results. He remarked, “Your exemplary leadership during a defining moment in our democracy not only safeguarded our nation’s unity but also allowed us to commemorate Democracy Day. Your legacy, as reflected in the ethos of your foundation, will be eternally lauded in Nigeria’s annals.”
He further asserted the collective responsibility of African leaders to make decisions that empower the youth to contribute to Africa’s development, noting the global impact of such decisions.
Highlighting Edo State’s educational advancements, Governor Obaseki shared, “Our educational reforms have garnered global recognition, drawing observers to Edo State to learn from our initiatives.”
Former President Jonathan expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government for hosting the foundation’s event, which coincided with the state’s Education Week. He commended the keynote speakers for enlightening African leaders on pathways to enhance and advance the continent. He encouraged ongoing dialogues with educational leaders nationwide to further the discourse initiated by the event.
Nigeria’s Education Minister, Mamman Tahir, praised Governor Obaseki’s efforts in positioning Edo State as a frontrunner in educational reform. He acknowledged the persisting challenge of out-of-school children in Nigeria but highlighted the Federal Government’s success in reintegrating 2 million children into the educational system.
Labour Party’s former presidential candidate, Mr. Peter Obi, recognized former President Jonathan’s unparalleled contribution to maintaining Nigeria’s unity. He posited, “The essence of free and fair elections is paramount in addressing the nation’s challenges and ensuring its developmental trajectory.”
He reiterated the fundamental role of education in steering Nigeria towards sustained progress.
The Keynote Speaker, Prof. Olubayi Olubayi, Chairman of the University Council at Cavendish University, Uganda, urged African leaders to guarantee education for all children on the continent. He critiqued the current state of affairs, where African leaders often follow external directives, stating, “For Africa to truly progress, we must chart our own course, not merely adhere to the prescriptions of others.”
He advocated for the establishment of specialized institutions for exceptionally gifted and talented youth, emphasizing that such schools should be accessible in every village, city, town, and local government area to catalyze the rise of African nations.
