Former Vice President of the World Bank, Dr Obiageli Ezekwesili, has congratulated the government of Senegal on its 63rd Independence anniversary.

The economic policy expert also lauded the policies of the President, Macky Sall, to improve the state of the African Union, while urging other African nations to embrace unity.

In a congratulatory message made available to the press, she reflected on the illustrious history of Senegal and Africa as a whole, citing the various milestones achieved.

She said, “The independence of African countries in the early 1960s were significant events, which is one reason they should always be celebrated with solemnity and deep appreciation of their historical import. Since the advent of independence, our countries have continued to work to overcome poverty, famine, insecurity and create a context of peace, stability and democratic progress.”

Ezekwesili, while acknowledging the collaborative work by African countries to overcome various challenges, stated that effective cooperation could set Africa on the path to progress.

“Being aware of the road that remains to be travelled and the need to do so together, under the seal of the ideals by AU, is one more reason to take advantage of each national Independence Day to recommit to the urgency of mobilising African countries around common causes of democracy, good governance, economic prosperity, political stability, security and trade.

“Senegal stands tall as one of the driving forces in the construction of African unity. The country has distinguished itself with its intellectual density, democratic ambition and cultural purity. It is, therefore, with great pride that I associate myself with the good people of Senegal and their Independence Day.

“To the leaders of Senegal, through President Sall, and to its valiant people, I would like, through this message, to encourage you to build and consolidate on your democratic credentials and ensure that it remains a worthy model in Africa from which sister African countries can draw inspiration as we journey towards a common ideal,” she added.