As I stand here today I wish to honour a great man whose vision has brought us to this wonderful setting here at La Campagne Tropicana at Ibeju-Lekki, the Builder, the President, the K of k, Dr Otunba Olawanle Raphael Akinboboye, and you Honourable members in your own right as distinguished ladies and gentlemen.
It’s with immense pleasure and pride that I stand before you today to address the inaugural “Africa Celebrates” event. This occasion marks a significant milestone in the narrative of our beloved continent—a narrative rich with diversity, resilience, and boundless potential.
Africa, often painted with the broad brushstrokes of adversity and struggle, is a continent teeming with vibrancy, creativity, and triumph.
Today, as we gather to celebrate the richness of our culture, heritage, and achievements, we shed light on the facets of Africa that often go unnoticed in mainstream narratives.
This event isn’t just about revelling in our past glories or showcasing our present accomplishments. It’s about embracing the journey ahead—a journey marked by unity, innovation, and collective progress. For too long, Africa has been portrayed as a land of challenges, but today, we choose to focus on the opportunities that abound within our borders.
Africa Celebrates is a platform to amplify the voices of the unsung heroes—the entrepreneurs, artists, activists, scientists, and everyday citizens who are shaping the narrative of our continent. It’s about recognizing their contributions and empowering them to continue driving positive change.
From the bustling streets of Lagos to the serene landscapes of the Serengeti, Africa is a tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. It’s a mosaic where each piece contributes to the beauty of the whole. And today, we celebrate this diversity as our greatest strength—a source of resilience and innovation that fuels our collective journey forward.
But celebration alone is not enough. It must be accompanied by a steadfast commitment to addressing the challenges that still plague our continent. From poverty and inequality to political instability and environmental degradation, Africa faces its fair share of hurdles. Yet, in the face of adversity, we find strength in our unity, determination, and unwavering spirit.
As we come together to celebrate, let us also reaffirm our dedication to building a brighter future for all Africans. Let us pledge to support initiatives that promote education, healthcare, economic empowerment, and environmental sustainability. Let us work hand in hand to create a continent where every individual has the opportunity to thrive and fulfill their potential.
Dr Wanle, I thank you for your hospitality. I pray for God’s continued guidance and stay in all your endeavours.
In closing, let me say that Africa Celebrates is not just an event; it’s a movement—a movement rooted in the belief that our diversity is our strength, our heritage is our foundation, and our future is limitless. So let us raise our voices, beat our drums, and dance to the rhythm of Africa’s heartbeat. For today, and every day, Africa celebrates!
Thank you.
Obonganwan Marie Erete
Queen Aruk II