By Muhammad Sani Muazu
July 18th marks a significant day in the global calendar—Nelson Mandela International Day.
As we honor the life and legacy of the iconic Nelson Mandela, the Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) leads the charge in Bauchi to commemorate this special day.
Nelson Mandela, a colossus of human rights, a shining example of resilience and positivity, and a champion of justice and equality, continues to inspire generations.
His remarkable journey, from fighting against apartheid to becoming South Africa’s first democratically elected president, serves as a beacon of hope and perseverance.
In Bauchi, dozens of YALI members joined their counterparts across Nigeria to celebrate this important day at 25 American Spaces.
During the celebration, attendees were presented with the biography of Nelson Mandela, providing a deep dive into his life’s work and legacy.
Antonio Guterres, addressed the theme of this year’s Nelson Mandela International Day, emphasizing that the power to combat poverty and inequality lies in our hands.
“We can decide to do things differently,” Guterres stated.
“We can choose to eradicate poverty, end inequality, transform the international economic and financial system in the name of equity, fight racism, respect human rights, confront climate change, and create a world that works for all humanity.”
Guterres urged everyone to join the Nelson Mandela Foundation in dedicating 67 minutes of public service on this day, symbolizing the 67 years Mandela spent fighting for social justice and human rights.
Dennis Francis from the UN General Assembly also spoke, underscoring the blueprint of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, which aims to eradicate poverty.
“We cannot continue to turn a blind eye to the millions still trapped in the prisons of poverty, racism, and systemic violence,” Francis affirmed.
“It is incumbent upon each and every one of us to act urgently with courage and vision, ensuring that every person’s basic human rights are respected.”
U.S. Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mill, joined in the celebration, highlighting the extraordinary legacy of Nelson Mandela.
“We come together to celebrate Nelson Mandela on this day set aside to honor and reflect on his remarkable contributions,” Mill said.
He emphasized that young leaders and YALI Network members have the power to make meaningful impacts in their communities and beyond, shaping the future of Africa.
Mill noted that Mandela was not born a hero but became one by standing up for what was right, even when faced with challenges.
“Mandela’s journey teaches us that real change requires patience, perseverance, and dedication to values,” he added.
He called on everyone to recommit to what Mandela termed the affirmation of our common humanity, citing examples of how YALI members in Nigeria are working to implement routine vaccinations and encourage youth participation in elections.
Mill also commended the YALI Network’s “One Million Trees” project aimed at combating climate change.
Speaking after the event, the General Secretary of YALI Bauchi Hub, Hamza Shehu Kobi, noted that young leaders in Bauchi joined their counterparts globally to honor Nelson Mandela for his contributions to humanity.
Kobi called on Nigerian youth to emulate Mandela’s lifestyle and principles.
Kobi encouraged the youth of Bauchi State to join YALI, highlighting the benefits of mentorship, networking, and community development.
“By engaging in these initiatives, young people can contribute significantly to societal progress and uphold Mandela’s legacy,” he said.
The collective voices of global leaders and young activists on this day underline the enduring relevance of Mandela’s vision for a just and equitable world.
As we honor his memory, we are reminded that the journey toward social justice and human rights requires unwavering commitment and action from all sectors of society.
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