By Olugbenga Adeolu
June 15, 2024
In a significant display of leadership and diplomacy, former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, met with Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, as he engaged with prominent figures at the Afreximbank Annual General Meeting (AGM) in the Bahamas.
The event also saw him meeting with former Nigeria’s President Olusegun Obasanjo, Prime Minister of The Bahamas Philip Edward Davis, and Professor Benedict Okey Oramah, President of Afreximbank, among other dignitaries.
Prof. Osinbajo’s presence was notably impactful, as he described the Afreximbank meeting as “one of the most intriguing” he had attended in recent times, emphasising the profound significance of the theme, “Owning our Destiny: Economic Prosperity on the Platform of Global Africa,” which underscored the ambition of a globally united Africa.
“Convening the meeting in the Bahamas was strategic; it was a visit of homeland Africa to our brethren in the diaspora, not merely a sentimental visit but one where actual investment deals were consummated and in-depth discussions took place,” he stated.
He added, “Africa will continue to prioritise long-term partnerships that serve our continent’s best interests,” addressing issues at a session on “Navigating Economic Transformation in a Polycrisis World: Strategies for Global Africa.” Prof. Osinbajo emphasised, “Africa’s only permanent friends are those who permanently support our interests,” highlighting the importance of self-reliance and local support.
He also underscored the role of the private sector in driving economic growth, citing the example of the Dangote project, which includes a 650,000 barrels per day refinery, as a testament to the private sector’s ability to attract cheap capital for investment.
This sentiment encapsulated the essence of the event, highlighting the tangible outcomes and the symbolic reunion of African nations with their diaspora.
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Governor Sanwo-Olu echoed Osinbajo’s sentiments, expressing his satisfaction with the connections made during his time at the event. “During my time at the AAM and ACTIF2024, I had the pleasure of connecting with former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, former President Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, Prime Minister of The Bahamas Philip Edward Davis, and Professor Benedict Okey Oramah, President of Afreximbank,” Sanwo-Olu said.
“These events are dedicated to tackling the pressing issues impacting African and Caribbean economies, fostering economic growth, and facilitating trade and investment both within Africa and with the diaspora,” Sanwo-Olu added, highlighting the importance of the AAM and ACTIF2024 events in addressing the critical issues facing African and Caribbean economies.
At the Afreximbank meeting, Osinbajo’s insights and strategic vision resonated deeply with attendees, marking him as a pivotal figure in the ongoing dialogue between Africa and its diaspora.
Moreover, Prof. Osinbajo underscored the collaborative spirit of the gathering, which saw the convergence of leaders from different generations and backgrounds, both from Africa and the Caribbean.
His remarks reflected a broader vision of economic unity and growth, paving the way for future partnerships and prosperity.
The Afreximbank AGM in the Bahamas stands as a testament to the power of unity and shared goals in shaping the future of global Africa, with Prof. Osinbajo’s contributions being particularly noteworthy in driving forward the agenda of economic prosperity and collaboration.
