During the United Nations General Assembly High-Level week, the spotlight shone brightly on Africa as a promising contender for the world’s next major business frontier.
Distinguished speeches by prominent figures, including New York’s Mayor Eric Adams and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed, ignited a wave of enthusiasm and optimism at a gala dinner held in New York City.
Mayor Eric Adams, a prominent figure in American politics, delivered a resounding message, emphasising Africa’s need to take control of its destiny and position itself as a pivotal player in the world’s future.
He stated, “We must exercise self-determination to ensure that Africa’s natural resources are never again exploited. Africa possesses the solutions it needs. Rather than witnessing a brain drain from the continent, we must employ the academic knowledge acquired from prestigious institutions to rebuild and shape Africa according to our aspirations.”
Following Mayor Adams, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed took the stage and celebrated the real power possessed by Africans, regardless of their geographical location.
She highlighted the unique role Nigerians and Africans were playing on the global stage, underscoring her own representation of this fact.
“Africans present in this room today, whether of African descent or part of the diaspora, hold genuine power,” Mohammed declared passionately.
She then delved into the evening’s theme, emphasizing that true unstoppable progress occurs when Africans fully embrace ownership of all aspects of their continent, acknowledging both the positive and challenging aspects.
“We are only unstoppable when we own everything—the good, the bad, and the ugly—and take the initiative as leaders. We need you to step up,” she urged the audience.
Amina Mohammed also recognized Africa’s wealth of intellectual capital and its potential for development, particularly harnessing the strength of women.
“We’re not merely discussing numbers; we’re talking about brilliant minds, about the ability to sit at the table and engage in meaningful discussions alongside men,” she affirmed.
In essence, the evening encapsulated hope, enjoyment, and a profound sense of anticipation regarding Africa’s future in the global landscape.
The United Nations General Assembly High-Level week witnessed an unwavering commitment to Africa’s emergence as a global business powerhouse, and the event left attendees with a profound sense of the continent’s potential and promise.
