Eminent politicians and diplomats from Africa, have called for effective democratic values, accountability and sense of patriotism to overcome marginalisation and impunity in the continent.
They also urged leaders to exemplify deeper sense of commitment to the social and economic development of the people as demonstrated by the former executive secretary of Economic Commission for Africa late Prof. Adebayo Adedeji.
The leaders spoke at a memorial symposium titled, Africa’s Development Agenda, Lessons From Adebayo Adedeji’s Years and Policy Options for the 21st Century,” held in honour of Prof. Adedeji. It was organised by the United Nations Economic Commission For Africa.
Prof. Adedeji, Nigeria’s former federal commissioner for economic development and infrastructure (1971-1975), was a deeply committed builder of African regional institutions and integration, and a fearless advocate for Africa’s development during his time at the Economic Commission for Africa.
The symposium was attended by the President of Namibia; Hage Geingob, former Nigerian head of state; General Yakubu Gowon, Nigeria’s Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo; former Liberia President, Amos Sawyer, former Minister for external affairs; Ibrahim Gambari, the executive secretary of ECA; Vera Songwe, former minister for medical and health service in Kenya; Peter Anyang Nyong’o, among others.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Osinbajo described late Prof. Adedeji as a man who demonstrated traits required to move the continent forward, especially quality leadership and passionate about impacting the lives of Nigerians, as well as, the global community.