Nigeria Joins African Union to Celebrate Africa Day 2025, Calls for Reparations and Unity
By Raymond Enoch
Nigeria has joined member states of the African Union (AU) and millions across the continent in celebrating Africa Day 2025, marking the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the precursor to the modern-day African Union.
This year’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” resonates powerfully with Nigeria’s long-standing commitment to unity, justice, and inclusive development on the African continent.
According to a statement signed by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, “Africa Day serves as a powerful reminder of our shared heritage, struggles, and aspirations for a peaceful, integrated, and economically vibrant Africa.”
The Ministry emphasized that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains steadfast in advancing the AU’s Agenda 2063—Africa’s strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development. The statement highlighted Nigeria’s advocacy for democratic governance, youth empowerment, and regional stability.
In addition, the Ministry reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to transformative initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), climate resilience efforts, and technological advancement, which are seen as key drivers of continental progress.
“We commend the progress made across the continent in education, healthcare, and infrastructure,” the statement continued, “while urging renewed collaboration to address persistent challenges such as conflict, poverty, and inequality.”
On this occasion, the Ministry called for strengthened solidarity among African nations and greater support from the global community to amplify Africa’s voice on international platforms.
Finally, the statement celebrated the resilience and innovation of the African people, particularly the youth, describing them as “the driving force behind the assured future.”
“As proud Africans, let us all recommit to building an Africa that thrives on unity, innovation, and shared prosperity,” the statement concluded
