Repositioning Nigeria in Global Pan-Africanism – By Professor Effiong Johnson

Key Words: Repositioning, Nigeria. Global. Pan-Aficanism. 

Protocol: 

APPRECIATION: I am grateful to the Pan-African Dialogue Institute (TPADI) for finding me worthy of their honour, to appoint me the keynoter in the inauguration ceremony of IPADI’s International the Headquarter Management Board. I am equally, surprisingly, pleased to be appointed Patron of the esteemed Institute. Thank you even as I blush over the array of qualities paraded about my person as the indices that qualified me for the honour. I am most humbled by your appointment. Thank you, and thank you again. 

INTRODUCTION: Pan-Africanism is a political, cultural and intellectual movement aimed at unifying and empowering Africans globally, that is, Africans in Africa and in the diaspora. The movement came into existence in the late and 19th and 20th centuries respectively as a response to colonialism, slavery, and racial discrimination. 

GOALS OF PAN-AFRICANISM: The goals of Pan-Africanism include (but not limited to the following): 

Unity and Solidarity: The unity of African nations particularly and people generally across the arbitrary boundaries created by the Colonialist 

Anticolonialism and Liberation: The movement seeks to end colonial rule and exploitation as well as advocate for the political and economic independence or emancipation of African nations. 

Self -Determination: It preaches the need for Africans to take control of their political, economic and cultural destinies.

Cultural pride: it promotes the celebration of African heritage, traditions and values while challenging the negative stereotypes about Africa. 

The Progenitors of Pan Africanism: Black diaporans in the majority were in the forefront of birthing Pan-Africanism; thereafter, Africans in the continent joined in the affront. They included these historical: 

W.E.B. Du Bois: An American Sociologist and Activist who promoted Pan-African unity and organized Pan-African Congresses. 

Marcus Garvey: A Jamaican activist who founded the Universal Negro Improvement Association, and advocated the idea of returning to Africa. 

Kwame Nkruma: Ghana’s first President, a zealous advocate of African Unity and leading voice in the establishment of the Organisation of African Unity (O.A.U). 

Haile Selassie: The Emperor of Ethiopia, a symbol of African resistance against colonialism and supporter of African unity. 

CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE OF PAN-AFRICANISM 

Economic Development and Intra-African trade 

Confronting neo-colonialism and foreign exploitation of African resources. 

Racial Justice and the rights of African diaspora communities. 

Promoting Cultural exchange and solidarity among Africans globally. 

REPOSITIONING NIGERIA FOR LEADERSHIP IN GLOBAL PAN-AFRICANISM

The word “repositioning” on the topic, suggests some attempts to put Nigeria back in a leadership position it enjoyed before in global Pan-Africanism. It implies an apparent falling from, or losing of a position, either by self-failure, or by being ousted by superior competing forces, for the position. Whatever nature characterized the loss of Nigeria’s global position in Pan-Africanism appears not to enjoy current interest as much as the necessary strategies that orchestrate her repositioning. The topic similarly harbors advantages to which Nigeria’s leadership position in global Pan-Africanism stands to harvest much more than existing in a nominal position.

Nigeria  is Africa’s most populous country and a leading economic power blog. These factors are potent forces that can be exploited to navigate the country to the leadership echelon in global Pan-Africanism. Historically, Nigeria, in comparative terms, has played the most pivotal roles in the Pan-African movement. During the fight against colonialism and apartheid, Nigeria was at the fore-front in supporting liberation movements across Africa, providing funds, education, military aids, etc. But Nigeria as presently constituted has obvious forces militating against her leadership potentials in  Pan-Africanism. 

Such negatively impeding forces include (but not limited to) corruption, insecurity, political disappointments, injustices, inadequate infrastructure, etc. 

Nigeria appears to be at a loss in tackling her domestic challenges and this portrays her as grossly incompetent in contemplating an ambition to lead other nations in any platform. Be that as it may, very deliberate strategies, reforms and visionary leadership become expedient to circumvent the odds plaguing the country and re-position her at the leadership status of global Pan-Africanism. The following are inevitable for such a dream.

ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT AS A FOUNDATION

Economic Strength is central to global influence. Nigeria has vast natural resources, human resources, youthful population, and entrepreneurial spirit. Well harnessed, these have the potentials of making Nigeria to become an economic leader in Africa. To achieve this, several steps are necessary                    

a.  Diversification of the Economy: Reduction of over-reliance on oil exports and investing in agriculture, manufacturing, technology and tourism. A diversified economy will not only create jobs but also enhance Nigerian’s capacity to support other African nations economically. 

a. Intra-African Trade: As a signatory to the African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) Nigeria should actively promote Intra-African Trade. This involves building infrastructure that facilitate trade such as railways, ports, highways connecting African countries, By doing so, Nigeria can position itself as a hub for Pan-African commence. 

c. Support for African Startups: Nigeria can establish Pan-African innovation hubs to nurture starters across the continent. These hubs would provide funding, mentorship, and technology to African entrepreneurs, fostering economic integration and technological advancement. 

3. Cultural Diplomacy: Harnessing  soft Power:  Nigeria’s cultural richness is a powerful tool for promoting Pan-Africanism. From Nollywood to Afrobeat, Nigerian culture resonates across Africa and the diaspora. This cultural influence can be used to unite African nations and project a positive image of Africa globally.

a) Promoting of African Identity: Nigeria should lead efforts to celebrate and preserve African traditions, languages, cultural festivals, exchange programmes and collaboration in arts and entertainment. This can strengthen Pan-African ties.

b. Education and Exchange Programmes: Nigeria can establish scholarship programmes for African students, encouraging knowledge exchange and fostering a sense of unity among future leaders. Universities can also collaborate on research addressing common African challenges. 

4.  Political Reforms for Credible Leadership: Leadership credibility is essential for Nigerian to gain the trust of other African nations. Political stability, good governance and respect for human rights are non-negotiable. 

a. Combating Corruption: Nigeria must intensify its fight against corruption to build trust both domestically and internationally. Transparent instructions and accountability mechanisms will enhance Nigeria’s reputation as a trustworthy leader.

b. Strengthening Democracy: A stable and inclusive democracy sets an example for other African nations. Nigeria must ensure free and fair elections, uphold the rule of law, and encourage citizen participation in governance. 

c. Conflict Resolution: Nigeria should take an active role in resolving conflicts across Africa, leveraging its experience in peacekeeping mission. By mediating disputes, Nigerian can strengthen its position as a unifying force in Africa. 

5. International collaboration: To lead in global Pan-Africanism, Nigeria must build strong alliances with African nations and the African diaspora while engaging with international organizations.  

a. African Union (AU) Leadership: Nigeria should seek leadership positions within the AU and other regional bodies to influence policies that benefit Africa, initiatives such as continental security frameworks and economic integration can be championed by Nigeria.

b. Engagement with the Diaspora: The African diaspora is a vital part of the Pan-African movement. Nigeria can collaborate with diaspora organizations to promote investment in, advocate for African causes, and address issues such as racial discrimination globally.

c. South-South Cooperation: Nigeria can foster partnerships with other  developing nations in Asia, Latin America and the Caribbean. Shared experiences and resources can amplify Pan-African voices on the global stage. 

6. Youth and Gender Inclusion: The Youth and Women are crucial to Nigeria’s Pan-African agenda. Empowering these groups ensures sustainability and inclusivity. 

a. Youth Leadership programmes: Nigeria should invest in leadership training programmes for African youth, equipping them with skills to address continental challenges. Platforms for youth dialogue and collaboration can also foster unity. 

b. Gender Equality: Nigeria must champion  gender inequality by promoting women in leadership roles across Africa. Women’s participation in governance and business will enhance socio-economic development. 

7. Addressing Security Challenges: Insecurity undermines Nigeria’s capacity to lead. Efforts to combat terrorism, bandits, and other forms of violence must be prioritized.

a. Regional Security Alliance: Nigeria can lead in establishing regional security frameworks to address cross-border threats. Collaborative efforts with neighboring countries will strengthen collective security. 

b. Investing in Technology: Advanced Technology such as drones and surveillance systems, can enhance Nigeria’s security infrastructure. Sharing these capabilities with other African nations will enforce Nigeria’s leadership.

Conclusion

Repositioning Nigeria for leadership in global Pan-Africanism is a multi-faceted endeavour that requires visionary leadership, strategic planning, and the collective efforts of all shareholders. By addressing internal challenges, leveraging its economic and cultural strengths and fostering unity among African nations, and the diaspora, Nigeria can reclaim its role as a beacon of hope and progress for Africa. A unified and empowered Africa, led by Nigeria, can redefine its place in the world and achieve the goals of Pan-Africanism.   

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