The President of the African Development Bank (AfDB), Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, has expressed deep concerns over the persistent insecurity in Nigeria and other parts of Africa, which continues to hinder the socio-economic development of the continent.
Speaking during an interview on Arise TV, monitored in Abuja, Dr. Adesina revealed that insecurity in Africa keeps him awake at night.
“If you wake me up and ask what my greatest challenge in Africa is right now, I would say it’s insecurity,” he said.
He explained that much of the insecurity across the continent is driven by poverty, climate change, environmental degradation, and a lack of economic opportunities for young people, rather than interstate conflicts.
To address the issue, he emphasized the need to create jobs and equip young people with skills, stating, “A free hand is the devil’s workshop. We must be accountable to the youth and ensure they have meaningful opportunities.”
On the issue of leadership, Dr. Adesina emphasized the importance of people-centric, accountable governance to fast-track development.
“Leadership is critical. It’s about using resources well and being accountable. Developed countries invest in human capital, infrastructure, and sound governance systems that attract private capital,” he noted.
He urged African leaders to adopt similar strategies to advance their economies and ensure sustainable development.
Despite the growing trend of young Africans migrating abroad, Dr. Adesina insisted that the future of Africa’s youth lies on the continent.
“I can’t accept that the future of Africa’s youth lies in Europe or anywhere else. It must be in a thriving Africa with quality growth and accountability for its youth,” he said.
He challenged African leaders to see youth populations as valuable assets to drive economic growth.
To counter the trend of migration and empower African youth, Dr. Adesina announced the establishment of Youth Entrepreneurship Investment Banks by the AfDB.
“These new financial institutions will provide capital to turn young people’s innovative ideas into thriving businesses. Why can’t we have Zuckerbergs and Bill Gates from Africa?” he asked.
He concluded by stressing the need for leadership that recognizes the potential of Africa’s youth and invests in them as a key driver of economic transformation.
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