The ministry of foreign affairs, on Sunday, joined the African Union (AU) member states in celebrating Africa Day 2025.

The day marked the 62nd anniversary of the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union.

The minister of foreign affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, in a statement by Kimiebi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the ministry, commended the AU’s continuous provision of a platform that championed the continent’s aspirations and vision of the founding fathers.

The celebration was themed “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations”.

Tuggar noted that it resonates deeply with Nigeria’s commitment to fostering continental unity, sustainable development, and collective prosperity.

“Undoubtedly, Africa Day serves as a powerful reminder of our shared heritage, struggles, and aspirations for a peaceful, integrated, and economically vibrant Africa.

“Therefore, under the amiable and dynamic leadership of President Bola Tinubu, Nigeria reaffirms its dedication to the principles of the AU’s Agenda 2063, particularly in advancing democracy, good governance, youth empowerment and regional security.

“As key advocate for African solidarity, Nigeria remains steadfast in supporting initiatives that promote intra-African trade, technological innovation and climate resilience in line with African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other transformative frameworks by the AU,” he said.

Mt Tuggar commended the progress made across the continent in the areas of education, healthcare and infrastructure development, urging renewed collaboration to address persistent challenges such as conflict, poverty and inequality.

“As the continent is committed to making significant progress in diverse areas, Nigeria calls for strengthened partnerships among African nations and the global community to amplify Africa’s voice on the international stage.”

The minister further called for a collective approach by AU member countries toward advancing the socioeconomic development of the continent.

“On this auspicious occasion therefore, we join the rest of the continent to celebrate the resilience and creativity of the African people, particularly our vibrant youth, who are 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,” he said. 

(NAN)