President Bola Tinubu has called for urgent and decisive action to accelerate Africa’s development, urging stakeholders to move beyond rhetoric and focus on tangible investments and infrastructure.
Speaking at a high-level engagement with the African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), Tinubu emphasised the need for African nations to harness their collective strengths and drive economic transformation through industrialisation, trade, and innovation. He said the continent could no longer afford delays in implementing strategies that promote growth and self-reliance.
The President highlighted the importance of intra-African trade, noting that stronger regional partnerships would reduce dependence on external markets and create sustainable opportunities for local industries. He also commended Afreximbank for its role in financing key projects across the continent, describing the institution as a critical driver of economic progress.
Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to supporting initiatives that align with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), adding that the country would continue to play a leading role in shaping policies that benefit the region.
He urged financial institutions to increase funding for small and medium-scale enterprises, which he described as the backbone of Africa’s economy. According to him, empowering entrepreneurs would unlock innovation and create jobs for millions of young Africans.
Afreximbank officials, in their response, reaffirmed their commitment to expanding investment across sectors including energy, manufacturing, and digital infrastructure. They noted that collaboration with governments would be key to achieving long-term development goals.
Tinubu concluded by stressing that Africa’s future depends on bold decisions and collective action, calling on leaders to prioritise projects that deliver real impact for citizens.

