Chief of Defence Staff, General Chris Musa, has urged African nations to unite and end the hostility experienced by Africans traveling across the continent’s borders. Speaking at a dinner titled “The King’s Banquet” in honor of the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, and his wife, Olori Atuwatse III, at Transcorp Hotel in Abuja, Musa expressed his dismay at the inhumane treatment Africans face while crossing borders within Africa.
In his address, General Musa lamented the treatment of fellow Africans he witnessed during his travels across the continent. “It pains me greatly to see how hostile we are to one another at African borders. We must break those barriers and welcome each other as family members. That is the only way we can grow,” he stated.
He emphasized the importance of mutual respect and collaboration among African nations, highlighting the shared identity and culture that binds the continent. “We walk, talk, and act alike. We must embrace ourselves and do business with one another. Africans should be able to travel across countries and feel at home.”
Musa also expressed pride in Africa’s progress in recent years, stressing the need for Africans to speak for themselves and not rely on external voices. “We refuse to be intimidated by anyone because we are Africans, the cradle of civilization. As the Chief of Defence Staff of Nigeria, I proudly acknowledge the significant progress our continent has made.”
Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North Senatorial District, echoed similar sentiments, advocating for the removal of trade barriers and the introduction of a single African currency to boost economic integration. “Africa is one continent, divided by Europeans long ago. We have remained poor despite being rich in natural resources. Lowering border barriers and adopting a single currency are vital steps toward solving our problems,” Nwoko said.
He further emphasized the need for Africa to develop technologies for refining and manufacturing products, reducing reliance on foreign countries for processing raw materials.
Former First Lady Patience Jonathan also spoke at the event, calling for peace across the continent to foster sustainable development. She urged for grassroots sensitization to promote unity. “Africa has great potential, and it’s time to harness it for growth. Unfortunately, Africa has been branded as a continent of conflicts. Without peace, there can be no sustainable development,” Jonathan noted.
She highlighted the importance of public-private partnerships in driving Africa’s development and encouraged Africans to focus on what unites them, starting with local communities.
The dinner served as a platform for African leaders to advocate for unity, peace, and progress as the continent continues to confront its challenges.
