Corruption slowing Africa’s economic development - Buhari
PRESIDENT Muhammadu
Buhari has urged African leaders to fight tirelessly to get rid of corruption, lamenting that the continent has remained at the far end of global development index because of its menace.
The President, while speaking on Friday in his capacity as the African Union champion on efforts to eliminate corruption, at a Highlevel side event on ‘Food Security Response: combating Illicit Financial Flows and Securing Asset Returns for Sustainable Development’, on the margins of the 77th Session of the UN General Assembly, said the continent has continued to be dwarfed by corruption
“corruption has dwarfed our growth and tainted our nations and continent. Africa remains at the far end of development index and concerted efforts made in the last few years need to be sustained, deepened by good governance and accountability that are guided by the rule of law.
“Over the years, we came to the painful realisation on how deeply embedded corruption has become in our countries and continent, as well as how corrosive it can be,” he said.
President Buhari, while challenging his colleagues to rise to full potentials, expressed strong faith that Africa can tackle the menace with strong resolve and commitment to eliminating Illicit Financial Flows, adding that “we must work tirelessly to get rid of corruption or by fighting it 24/7.’’
“We need strong partnerships from our global partners to ensure that these efforts succeed. A developed and stable Africa will not only be a global partner for peace but for sustainable development and progress.’’
“Our national resources must not find safe-havens around the world. This fight is a necessity and not a choice to give our citizens a better life through economic prosperity, social peace and security,’’ he added.
The President urged his colleagues to recall the United Nations General Assembly Special Session Against corruption political declaration of June 2021 and ensure its effective implementation toward global food security and sustainable infrastructural development in the continent.