Former President Goodluck Jonathan has called on African leaders to adopt long-term development plans, invest in quality education and innovation, and speak with one voice on issues of reparations and debt relief to secure the continent’s future.
Jonathan made the call in a post shared on his X account on Thursday after speaking at the opening of the Elevate Africa Convening 2026 in Accra, Ghana. The event was hosted by His Majesty Ògíamẹ̀ Atúwàtse III, CFR, the Olu of Warri.
He said Africa’s future prosperity would depend on clear vision, deliberate development planning and purposeful leadership.
According to him, countries such as Singapore and India have shown that sustained progress is possible through strategic planning and investment in people.
Jonathan said Singapore built its development on merit, integrity, pragmatism and inclusiveness, while India strengthened its economy by investing in research-driven universities, science and technology.
He said Africa should adapt such lessons to its own realities by giving priority to technology-driven education that prepares young people with the knowledge, skills and creativity needed to drive innovation, create wealth and expand employment opportunities.
“Our responsibility is not merely to address the challenges of today, but to lay a solid foundation for our children, grandchildren and generations yet unborn,” Jonathan stated.
The former president also backed calls for reparations and debt relief for African countries, saying the continent must approach the issues with a common position.
“Through the African Union, our leaders must work towards a common position that reflects our shared interests, strengthens our negotiating capacity and ensures that Africa speaks with clarity and purpose on these critical issues,” he said.
Jonathan stressed that Africa’s development would require more than good intentions. He said the continent must remain committed to strategic investment, stronger institutions and coordinated leadership to achieve lasting growth and protect the interests of future generations.