Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to African Unity, Development on Africa Day 2025.

By Caroline Ameh

The Federal Government of Nigeria has joined the rest of the African continent in commemorating Africa Day 2025, marking the 62nd anniversary of the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now known as the African Union (AU).

In a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday by Kimiebi Imomotimi Ebienfa, spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government reaffirmed its unwavering support for continental unity, sustainable development, and shared prosperity. This year’s celebration is themed “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” a cause Nigeria says aligns with its core diplomatic and developmental objectives.

The Ministry noted that Africa Day serves as a powerful reminder of the continent’s collective history, struggles, and hopes for a peaceful, integrated, and economically empowered future. It added that under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Nigeria remains committed to the African Union’s Agenda 2063, with particular emphasis on democracy, good governance, youth empowerment, and regional security.

“Nigeria stands firm in its support for initiatives that enhance intra-African trade, drive technological innovation, and build climate resilience,” the statement said, referencing ongoing efforts tied to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and other AU-led development frameworks.

While commending progress in education, healthcare, and infrastructure across the continent, the Ministry urged deeper collaboration to address lingering challenges such as poverty, inequality, and conflict. It also called for stronger partnerships among African nations and with the international community to ensure that Africa’s voice is amplified on the global stage.

“As proud Africans, we celebrate the resilience and creativity of our people, especially the youth who are central to the continent’s bright future,” the statement concluded. “Let us recommit to building a united Africa driven by innovation and shared prosperity.”

Africa Day is celebrated annually on May 25 to commemorate the founding of the OAU in 1963, and to reflect on Africa’s progress and the challenges ahead.