Washington, D.C.- Former Nigerian Permanent Representative to the United Nations and 74th President of the UN General Assembly, H.E. Prof. Tijjani Muhammad-Bande, delivered the keynote address on Africa Day 2025, presenting a forward-looking vision for the continent’s future.
Speaking at a virtual global forum hosted by the Belcrest Institute, Prof. Muhammad-Bande outlined the theme “Africa Rising: Innovation, Heritage, and Hope”, emphasizing the continent’s vital place in shaping the global order.The forum brought together participants from across Africa and the global diaspora to reflect on the continent’s achievements, potential, and strategic pathways forward.
“Africa is not a passive participant in global affairs,” Prof. Muhammad-Bande affirmed. “We are contributors to world civilizations—past, present, and future.”
In his remarks, Prof. Muhammad-Bande emphasized the importance of Agenda 2063, the African Union’s strategic framework for inclusive growth and sustainable development. He called for a renewed continental focus on self-reliance, democratic governance adapted to African contexts, and long-term investments in education, science, and innovation.
Highlighting the central role of Africa’s youth, the keynote underscored the urgency of equipping new generations to lead in sectors ranging from agriculture and health to climate resilience and diplomacy. Africa’s vast human capital, he noted, must be empowered to drive structural transformation and global engagement on equal terms.
During the interactive segment of the forum, Prof. Muhammad-Bande responded to questions addressing issues including democracy, migration, population growth, and regional peace and security.
“Migration is not alien to Africa,” he said. “The real task is to build systems that make staying as viable and rewarding as going.”
On conflict and governance, Prof. Muhammed-Bande highlighted the ongoing crisis in Sudan, advocating for stronger, more coordinated interventions by the African Union and regional partners. He also reaffirmed the need for Africa to shape global responses to climate change and public health in line with its own realities and priorities.
The Africa Day Forum 2025, hosted by the Belcrest Institute, forms part of the Institute’s mission to spotlight Africa’s evolving role in global discourse. This year’s event marked a renewed call to view Africa not just as a continent of challenges, but as a wellspring of innovation, culture, and potential.
For more information on future events and to engage in ongoing dialogues on African development, contact:
: info belcrestinstitute org