Director general of the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS), Ilorin, Kwara State, Comrade Issa Aremu, yesterday called for appreciation and celebration of the achievements of African leaders while still alive.
This, he said, would inspire hope among the new generation of young African leaders.
Aremu spoke at the 2025 Nelson Mandela International Day as part of the MINILS citizenship engagement on the imperatives of the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu.
He said it was time for a changed narrative of Africa from the “unhelpful exaggerated failings” of leaders to conscious recognition of the landmark enduring legacies when Africa’s leaders are alive.
He commended the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for declaring July 18 every year as Nelson Mandela International Day since 2010.
Aremu noted that the declaration had been inspiring people around the world to celebrate Nelson Mandela’s legacy by giving back to their communities, for 67 minutes – one minute for each year he spent fighting for justice.
He said Africa should follow the trail of the United Nations and set aside days to celebrate the impact of accomplished notable leaders in the task of nation building.
He hailed the statesmanship of President Bola Tinubu for the posthumous celebration of the accomplishments of the late President Muhammadu Buhari, which he said were hitherto underappreciated while he was alive.
He noted that the late Buhari symbolised selflessness, sacrifices and incorruptibility in public service like Nelson Mandela.
He agreed with President Tinubu that through the most turbulent times, Buhari led with quiet strength, profound integrity and an unshakable belief in Nigeria’s potential, citing he navigated the storms of economic recessions and disruptions caused by COVID-19 pandemic.
