Former Nigerian Minister of Education, Dr. Obiageli Ezekwesili has in a viral video challenges Europe’s outdated approach to Africa, urging the continent to recognise its emerging potential rather than viewing it as a humanitarian case.
Speaking in the video sighted by our correspondent on Sunday, Ezekwesili said that Europe must shift its mindset and see Africa as a “contiguous zone of prosperity and stability,” focusing on Africa’s young people, women, and technology as critical drivers of future growth.
“And I said with every boldness, Europe did not see China coming 40 years ago, and you also are not seeing that there are three game -changers for Africa now, three game changers are Africa’s young people, Africa’s women and technology,” she declares.
She argues that bureaucrats with outdated views should retire, allowing the younger generation to lead the continent towards an equitable and prosperous future.
Ezekwesili also calls for Europe to move beyond immigration concerns and see Africa as a vibrant business partner. “A bold Europe would look at Africa and see the possibility of a prosperous future, not just immigration,” she asserts.
Highlighting the proximity of Africa to Europe, she questions why Europe remains preoccupied with China, an “external” threat, rather than focusing on the untapped potential within Africa. “Europe needs to ask itself, what did we get wrong?” Ezekwesili challenges, urging a more strategic and forward-thinking relationship with Africa.
