Corruption, unemployment threat to Africa’s development – AU

The African Union, AU, has warned that corruption and unemployment will continue to derail Africa’s development.

The AulU issued the warning during the 2nd Investiture of two Ambassadors, Vivian Elegalam and Orok Orok of the Order of the AU Agenda 2063 in Abuja.

The AU said except African leaders take urgent action to address the challenges they will continue to constitute significant threats to development and stability in the continent, African Union (AU), has said.

It emphasized that unemployment is a significant issue in Africa, particularly in Nigeria, where many youths have remained unemployed.

Elegalam advised young people not to wait for government jobs but to take bold steps and strive to do something for themselves.

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The AU Envoy, who stressed the need for African governments to address corruption, citing it as a major obstacle to development, called on leaders to prioritize citizens over personal gain, adding that corruption leads to suffering and hunger.

She said, “Corruption is a major issue hindering development in Africa. Leaders need to prioritize citizens over personal gain. In Nigeria, corruption is rampant, and it leads to suffering and hunger. Leaders are there to serve, not to exploit.

“Unemployment is another significant issue in Africa, especially Nigeria, where many youths are unemployed. The government seems to be falling short of providing lasting solutions.

“As an AU Ambassador, I would advise you, the youth, not to wait for government jobs, as not everyone can be employed by the government.”

She acknowledged the challenges entrepreneurs face in Nigeria, stressing the importance of hard work and consistency.

On his part, the Chairman of the Governing Council of the African Union Agenda 2063 Ambassadorial Assembly, Dr. Tunji Asaolu, highlighted the importance of promoting the AU’s Agenda 2063.

According to him, the AU Agenda 2063 is a 50-year plan for development aiming for a united Africa with one passport and currency by 2063.

Asaolu who also serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of African Affairs of the International Society of Diplomats, said that corruption and bad leadership are not unique to Africa but emphasised the need for patriotic Africans committed to the cause to achieve the goals of Agenda 2063.