Africa Day: Diplomats Say Africa Must Speak With One Voice in Global Affairs

Diplomats and policy advocates have called for stronger implementation of African Union integration frameworks as the continent marked the 2026 Africa Day celebration.

Speaking during a global news conference in Abuja organised to commemorate the 63rd anniversary of the establishment of the African Union, officials stressed the need for African nations to move beyond symbolic declarations toward practical continental cooperation.

The Vice-Chairman of the African School of Diplomacy and International Relations, Tunji Asaolu, said Africa’s structural and developmental challenges could no longer be justified in an era where powerful regional blocs increasingly shape global politics and economic influence. “As the AU marks its 63rd anniversary, African leaders must move beyond symbolic rhetoric and take bold steps toward continental statehood,” Asaolu stated.

He argued that Africa must establish stronger frameworks capable of guaranteeing collective security, economic prosperity and cultural identity across the continent. Asaolu described African youths as central to the future of continental integration and urged younger generations not to allow colonial-era borders to limit their ambitions and imagination. “The future belongs to a generation willing to think beyond fragmented nation-states toward the collective glory of Africa,” he said.

The diplomat also reaffirmed ASDIR’s commitment to training young Africans in diplomacy and leadership capable of advancing regional cooperation and integration objectives. He said the organisation remained prepared to collaborate with governments, civil society groups, private-sector institutions and international partners to promote what he described as the dream of a more united Africa.

Asaolu further emphasised the importance of free movement, economic inclusiveness and a unified continental voice on global issues.

Africa Day, celebrated annually on May 25, commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity in 1963, which later evolved into the African Union.

The annual event often serves as a platform for reflection on continental integration, economic cooperation, governance challenges and Africa’s role in international affairs.