From Aidoghie Paulinus, Abuja Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, has tasked African countries on unity, saying that the progress of the continent was dependent on its ability to act together. The minister, who stated this during the Africa Day celebration in Abuja, also said Africa Day is far more than a ceremonial observance. She further said Africa Day is a powerful symbol of the enduring vision and courage of the continent’s founding fathers, who in 1963, established the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU), with the noble objective of promoting solidarity, safeguarding sovereignty and advancing the political and economic liberation of the continent. He noted that the dream of the founding fathers of a united, prosperous and peaceful Africa remained the continent’s guiding light. “Today, as we celebrate, we must also take pride in the extraordinary richness of African culture, our languages, traditions, values, arts, music, fashion and indigenous knowledge systems, which together define our identity and distinguish us on the global stage. African culture is our heritage and our strength. “Our cultural diversity must continue to serve as a bridge for deeper understanding and stronger cooperation among our nations. In a rapidly changing world, preserving and promoting African culture is essential, not only for safeguarding our identity, but also for empowering future generations with pride, confidence and purpose. Culture remains a vital instrument for peace-building, regional integration and sustainable development. “Equally important is the imperative of African unity. Our progress as a continent depends on our ability to act together, to speak with one voice and to confront shared challenges with shared solutions. Unity remains our most powerful tool in addressing insecurity, economic inequality, climate vulnerability and the persistent injustices of the global order. Through stronger collaboration, mutual support and unwavering commitment to Pan African ideals, Africa can fully realise its immense potential and claim its rightful place in global affairs,” she said. Focusing on the 2026 theme, “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation System to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” the minister said the theme drew urgent attention to one of the most fundamental pillars of human development and societal wellbeing. “Water is life. It is central to human survival, public health, food production, industrial growth, energy generation and environmental sustainability. Yet, millions across our continent still lack reliable access to clean water and adequate sanitation services. This challenge not only threatens lives and livelihoods, but also undermines economic development and social stability. “Safe sanitation is equally critical. Without proper sanitation systems, communities remain vulnerable to disease outbreaks, reduced productivity and environmental degradation. Women and children are often the most affected, facing disproportionate burdens in accessing safe water and dignified sanitation facilities. Addressing these gaps is, therefore, not only a developmental necessity, but also a moral obligation. “As Africa confronts the growing impacts of climate change, desertification, pollution and rapid urbanisation, our commitment to sustainable water management must become more deliberate and coordinated. We must invest in resilient infrastructure, strengthen regional cooperation over shared water resources, embrace innovation and technology and prioritise policies that guarantee equitable access for all,” she also said. The minister further said the theme aligned directly with the aspirations of Agenda 2063, the continental blueprint for inclusive growth and sustainable development. “It reminds us that achieving the Africa we want requires practical action, strategic partnerships and responsible stewardship of our natural resources. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu, the Federal Government continues to pursue policies that strengthen sustainable development, enhance regional cooperation and position Nigeria as a catalyst for Africa’s economic transformation and continental integration. “As we celebrate Africa Day today, let us renew our faith in Africa. Let us strengthen our bonds of unity, cherish and preserve our cultural heritage and recommit ourselves to building a continent where every citizen has access to dignity, opportunity and prosperity. “Together, through unity, solidarity and purposeful action, we can secure a brighter future for Africa and for generations yet unborn,” the minister concluded.