Address by TPADI President during the Inauguration of The International Headquarters Management Board

Protocol
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen. It is with a deep sense of privilege and purpose that I stand before you today on this historic occasion of the inauguration of the International Headquarters Management Board of The Pan-African Dialogue Institute (TPADI). Today, we are not only celebrating the establishment of this pivotal body but also reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the ideals of Pan-Africanism and the unity of our great continent. The significance of today’s event cannot be overstated. It marks a new chapter in our collective journey toward fostering solidarity, promoting socio-political and economic liberation, and dismantling the lingering vestiges of colonialism and neocolonialism. As we gather here at the Main Campus of the University of Uyo, Nigeria, the site of our International Headquarters, let us be reminded that the best place to begin any decolonization project is the mind. Let us also be reminded of the vital role Nigeria can play as a strategic powerhouse of the continent in this decolonization project.

On May 25, 1963, the leaders of the then 30 independent African states convened in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to establish the Organization of African Unity (OAU). This landmark gathering was a unified effort to address the challenges of colonialism and to chart a course for Africa’s liberation and development. Decades later, the African Union (AU) emerged as the successor to the OAU, continuing the legacy and retaining May 25 as Africa Day. However, despite the symbolic importance of Africa Day, its observance remains limited across the continent, with only nine countries (Nigeria not inclusive) recognizing it as a public holiday.

In May 2024, TPADI took a bold step in launching its inaugural international dialogue conference on Pan-Africanism, coinciding with the commemoration of Africa Day at the University of Uyo. The groundbreaking event, which welcomed distinguished personalities including Her Excellency, Mrs. Fatoumata Tambajang, former Vice President of Republic of The Gambia, marked the first formal observance of Africa Day in Nigeria. It sparked national and international conversations about the contemporary relevance of Pan-Africanism, reinforcing the need for Nigeria to assume a leadership role in this critical discourse.

Today, as we inaugurate the International Headquarters Management Board (IH-MB), we are laying the foundation for a more structured and effective approach to advancing our mission, not only to reposition University of Uyo as the global center for the study, practice and propagation of Pan-Africanism, but also all of Nigeria in global Pan-African consciousness. This board, comprising dedicated programme managers and coordinators representing the 10 commissions of the institute, will be instrumental in driving our initiatives, fostering collaboration, and ensuring the successful implementation of our programs.

The general functions of the IH-MB includes, strategic oversight, policy implementation, resource and facility management, as well as monitoring and evaluation of the headquarters programmes and activities. Therefore, the board is to:

1. Provide overall guidance and strategic direction for all activities of the institute’s headquarters.
2. Ensure the execution of policies and strategies developed by the Executive Council.
3. Oversee the acquisition of properties, allocation and management of resources to support various programs and initiatives; and
4. Establish mechanisms for monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of the headquarters’ programs and activities in Nigeria. Hence, the scope of operations of the IH-MB covers the whole of Nigeria.
   The specific functions of the Board includes, programme development, collaboration and partnership, capacity-building, and socio-cultural promotion. By these:
5. Each commission will develop and implement specific programs aligned with TPADI’s core pillars of education, policy engagement, and project implementation.
6. Foster partnerships with local, national, and international stakeholders to enhance the reach and impact of TPADI’s initiatives.
7. Organize training and capacity-building workshops for officers, members and partners to enhance their skills and knowledge in promoting Pan-African ideals.
8. Implement cultural and educational activities that celebrate and promote Africa’s rich heritage and Pan-African values.
9. Manage and maintain (on behalf of the Executive Council) the facilities provided at the “Pan-African City” – the international headquarters complex proposed for construction, of which work is planned to begin this year.
   
   The ceremony today is not just an administrative formality; it is a celebration of our shared vision and collective commitment. The administration of the oath of office, the keynote presentation, academic and cultural displays, recognitions, and investiture of patrons and patronesses, and the visit to the proposed Pan African City project site, all symbolize our unity of purpose and dedication to the cause of Pan-Africanism.
   As we move forward, let us draw inspiration from the words of the great Pan-Africanist, Kwame Nkrumah, who said, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.” Let us continue to work together, embracing our diversity, celebrating our shared heritage, and striving for a future where Africa stands united, influential, prosperous, and free from all forms of exploitation.
   
   I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Management of University of Uyo, ably led by the distinguished professor of Agronomy – Prof. Nyaudoh Ndaeyo – the Pillar of Pan-Africanism, for embracing, hosting and supporting the institute. To the esteemed Senate of University of Uyo, faculties, colleges, institutes, as well as departments and centres, I thank you and invite you to join us to think Pan-Africanism, study Pan-Africanism, practice and propagate Pan-Africanism in Nigeria, Africa and the world at large. I congratulate all the patrons and patronesses nominated for investiture today, hoping that given their pedigree in the Nigerian society, their support will make TPADI’s goals achievable. May I also appreciate those who have contributed to the realization of today’s event, especially, members of the new board, even as I look forward to the impactful work that lies ahead. Together, let us build a Pan-African legacy that future generations will be proud to inherit.
   
   Thank you, and may this inauguration be the beginning of a new era for The Pan-African Dialogue Institute and the African continent.