Africa Needs To Learn From Nigeria’s Entrepreneurial Spirit – Patrick Lumumba
Kenyan activist and iconic public speaker, Professor Patrick Lumumba has said the African continent looks to Nigeria for direction and inspiration especially as regards the relentless fighting spirit of the average Nigerian to succeed.
Dr Lumumba was speaking at the event marking this year’s Face of Okija Cultural Festival in Anambra state.
He said the likes of Dr Ernest Azudialu-Obiejesi who has built a conglomerate of companies from scratch employing thousands of people in various fields need to be celebrated rather than the public penchant to glorify politicians that actually contribute little to the society. Dr Lumumba said the companies like Nestoil, Neconde, White Dove, B&Q and the other companies that make up the Obijackson Group could not have been in existence if a man like Dr Ernest Azudialu-obiejesi did not dare to dream despite daunting challenges.
Dr Lumumba who was once the Chairman of Kenya’s anti corruption commission said the key to Africa’s growth lies in the sustainable support for entrepreneurs through creation of enabling environment for private enterprise to thrive throughout the continent.
On democracy he said Africa will get it right the day Nigeria gets it right.
He said Nigeria stands in a very unique position in Africa and for all African countries, and that many believe Nigeria holds the key to the problems of the African continent. He also urged Africa to focus on the things that matter; the things that build and grow the continent, things that impact the people.
“By February 2019, Nigerians will go to the polls to elect their leaders. And I must state that the day Nigeria gets it right, Africa gets it right.”
He continued: “Young people in Nigeria and across Africa must identify what is in their best interest and actively participate in the electoral process. They must understand the significance and power of their votes.
What are the policies on the table? Are we voting people for what they have done, for what they can do or for the hand-outs they offer before the elections?
