CISLAC Calls for Unity Among Africans

Arising from a one-day media roundtable on the implementation of the African Union (AU) Instruments in Nigeria, at the Lagos Airport Hotel, Ikeja, Lagos, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC), on Tuesday, charged Africa to be united in order to be able to realise its renaissance. Onyekachi Eke, who spoke on behalf of CISLAC at a paper presentation captioned, “Understanding SOTU focused African Union (AU) Standards and the Nigerian context”, said, “We echo the Pan-African call that Africa must unite in order to realize its Renaissance. Present generations are confident that the destiny of Africa is in their hands, and that we must act now to shape the future we want. “Fifty years after the first thirty-three (33) independent African states gathered in Addis Ababa on 25 May 1963 to form the Organization of African Unity, we are looking ahead towards the next fifty years. “We reviewed past plans and commitments, and pledge to take into account the lessons as we implement Agenda 2063.” Eke added that the agenda includes: “Putting mobilization of the people and their ownership of continental programmes at the core; the principle of self-reliance and Africa financing its own development; the importance of capable, inclusive and accountable states and institutions at all levels and in all spheres, the critical role of Regional Economic Communities as building blocks of continental unity, and holding ourselves and our governments and institutions accountable for results.” He also posited that the 2063 African aspiration, “Reflects Our united voices of what we desire for ourselves, for future generations and the continent. The aspirations reflect our desire for shared prosperity and well-being, for unity and integration, for a continent of free citizens and expanded horizons, where the full potential of women and youth are realized, and with freedom from fear, disease and want.” The group noted that Africa remains self-confident in its identity, heritage, culture and shared values, and as a strong, united and influential partner on the global stage, making its contribution to peace, human progress and welfare. The group said, “We are confident that Africa has the capability to realise her full potential in development, culture and peace and to establish flourishing, inclusive and prosperous societies. We thus commit to act together towards achieving the following aspirations; A prosperous Africa based on inclusive growth and sustainable development, an integrated continent, politically united and based on the ideals of Pan Africanism and the vision of Africa’s Renaissance, an Africa of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice and the rule of law, a  peaceful and secure Africa, an  Africa with a strong cultural identity, common heritage, values and ethics, an Africa where development is people-driven, unleashing the potential of its women and youth,  strong, united and influential global player and partner.”