Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has praised Africa’s youth as the continent’s greatest resource and urged them to lead with courage, integrity, and vision.
The former President asserted that Africa’s transformation will be driven by its own people rather than external solutions.
Speaking on Wednesday during the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2025 ceremony at the Loveworld Nation Arena in Lagos, Nigeria, Uhuru stated that Africa’s true wealth lies not underground but in the minds and hearts of its people.
The former President delivered the keynote address at the invitation of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.
“We have been told of the great wealth beneath Africa’s soil, but our greatest resource is within the minds and hearts of our young people. You are not leaders of tomorrow; you are leaders of today who are shaping tomorrow,” he said.
He commended the award recipients for their service and innovation, noting that their efforts exemplify the continent’s growing leadership potential.
“Each of these young men and women chose service over self, community over comfort, and vision over fear. We honour not just what they have done, but who they have become,” he said.
Uhuru emphasised that leadership is not about titles but transformation, urging the youth to use their talents with transparency and impact.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, among other leaders, during the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2025 ceremony at the Loveworld Nation Arena in Lagos, Nigeria / OFFICE OF THE 4TH PRESIDENT OF KENYA XHe stated that Africa does not lack ideas or energy but needs leadership anchored in values, guided by vision, and accountable to the people.
The former Head of State commended Pastor Chris Oyakhilomefor his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to nurturing young Africans through the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, describing it as “a platform that not only celebrates success but also instils purpose.”
He praised the Foundation’s dedication to investing in Africa’s most valuable resource: its people.
Uhuru also expressed heartfelt appreciation to former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo, whom he fondly referred to as “Baba,” for his enduring statesmanship and commitment to mentoring Africa’s next generation of leaders, a role that continues to shape the continent’s future.
Uhuru also delivered his New Year goodwill message, extending wishes of peace, wisdom, and prosperity to the people of Africa and the world.
Former President Uhuru Kenyatta, among other leaders, during the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2025 ceremony at the Loveworld Nation Arena in Lagos, Nigeria / OFFICE OF THE 4TH PRESIDENT OF KENYA XHe called for renewed faith in Africa’s ability to define its own destiny through unity, integrity, and service-driven leadership.
“May Africa rise built by Africans, strengthened by our unity, and guided by leaders committed to service,” he said.
The Future Africa Leaders Awards, founded by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, annually identifies, celebrates, and supports young Africans who have demonstrated exceptional leadership by positively impacting their generation through education, youth empowerment, and mentorship.
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