African Leaders Urge Continental Unity at Amandla Retreat

At the inaugural Amandla Parapọ̀ 2026 retreat held in Ilishan-Remo, Ogun State, African leaders called for stronger continental cooperation. The event was organized by the Amandla Institute for Policy and Leadership Advancement and aimed to address Africa's position in a competitive international landscape.

Bisi Adeleye-Fayemi, Co-founder and Chairperson of the Institute’s Governing Board, stressed the importance of transforming Africa's natural resources and youthful population into economic and political power. She identified weak institutions and dependence on external funding as major challenges.

Professor Adebayo Olukoshi, President and CEO of the Institute, emphasized the need for collective sovereignty and a stronger voice for Africa in global decision-making, particularly regarding the lack of a permanent seat on the UN Security Council. Dele Olojede, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, advocated for the removal of barriers to movement and economic integration, urging practical measures to improve citizens' lives and greater use of digital technology in governance.

The retreat included thematic plenaries and discussions on governance, security, and economic sovereignty.