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By Kehinde Aderemi
At a grand ceremony held recently, Hon Olumekun Olubunmi Felix was officially confirmed as an Ambassador for the African Union’s Agenda 2063. It was a testament to his dedication to the continent’s socio-economic transformation.
This prestigious appointment came after a rigorous screening process, recognising Olumekun’s exceptional diplomatic skills, maritime logistics expertise, and commitment to job creation.
He was also selected for his exceptional diplomatic acumen and his track record in maritime logistics and job creation.
As President of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) and AWAEMAP, Olumekun had demonstrated his ability to drive economic growth and unity across borders.
He would be representing Africa globally, advocating policies aligned with the seven aspirations of “The Africa We Want”.
In his remarks on the appointment, Olumekun expressed profound appreciation and gratitude for the honour.
He spoke about his vision, highlighting how he would champion the blueprint for Africa’s future.
“It is with a profound sense of duty and humility that I accept this appointment as an Ambassador for the AU Agenda 2063.
“I am deeply honoured by the trust the Ambassadorial Assembly has placed in me to champion the blueprint for Africa’s future. For too long, the narrative of Africa has been written by others. Today, through Agenda 2063, we are writing our own story.
“My career in the maritime sector has shown the incredible potential of African industry when we work together across borders.
“As an Ambassador, I am also committed to ensuring that our maritime gateways become the lifeline of a unified African market”, he said
He promised to collaborate with the African Union Commission to translate this vision into “tangible prosperity for every African citizen.”
Part of his responsibility as the new AU Agenda 2063 Ambassador is to ensure
strategic mandate and global representation.
He would also join a distinguished diplomatic platform that would be saddled with the responsibility of mobilising resources, engaging stakeholders to finance and support continental development programmes.
He would also work on policy advocacy by promoting initiatives that will drive economic growth, cross-border collaboration, and the elimination of trade barriers. He would foster African Unity, forged partnerships that align with the vision of an integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa.
In his remarks, Chairperson of the nomination/ screening committee, Ambassador Amara Thecla Orakwe, said Olumekun’s specialised knowledge in maritime trade and economic development will be instrumental in realising the goals of the AU Agenda 2063.
“Olumekun has a legacy of corporate excellence that was beyond his public service and advocacy.As Chief Executive Officer of Sunrise Commodity Nigeria Limited, Rely
Maritime Limited and Rely Global Resources Limited, he would also bring his wealth of practical private-sector experience to the fore.
“As a role model, he would continue to serve as the Chief Executive Officer of several prominent firms that remain highly active in driving regional commerce today and being a leader of these organisations, it underscores his hands-on expertise in navigating the complexities of international trade and resource management”, Ambassador Thecla Orakwe stated.
