Tinubu, Kagame
Tinubu, Kagame advocate for equitable economic partnerships at global meeting
Presidents Bola Tinubu of Nigeria and Paul Kagame of Rwanda have emphasised the importance of equity, inclusivity, and collaboration in Africa’s economic partnerships.
Both presidents made the call during the Special Meeting on Global Collaboration, Growth, and Energy for Development in Riyadh, organised by the World Economic Forum.
The meeting coincided with the strengthening economic ties between Africa and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states, with GCC companies pledging $53 billion in investments in critical projects addressing food security, energy transition, and infrastructure development across Africa.
President Tinubu addressed Nigeria’s economic challenges, highlighting his administration’s decision to discontinue fuel subsidies to prevent bankruptcy.
”Despite the initial hardships, measures were implemented to support the most vulnerable segments of society,” he stated.
On his part, President Kagame reiterated Rwanda’s commitment to regional and international trade, highlighting investments in education, health, and technology as key drivers of progress.
He underscored the importance of inclusivity and collaboration within Africa, citing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) as a unifying force for the continent.
Both presidents called for a shift from a “victim mentality” towards leveraging Africa’s vast resources to benefit its people.
President Tinubu, as ECOWAS chairman, urged nations to prioritise peace, stability, and economic growth in the West African region.