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By Kehinde Aderemi
The African Union Agenda 2063 recently appointed Mr Morufu Olapade Raheem, as one of its ambassadors. Raheem’s appointment to the exalted position came after a rigorous screening process.
As the MD/CEO of Molhadeen Int’l Nigeria Limited and Nedu Logistic Solutions Ltd, Raheem’s new appointment was also to celebrate his exceptional leadership qualities, diplomatic acumen, and over 25 years of unwavering commitment to the Nigerian maritime industry.
He was honoured as a designated representative, whose job was to represent Africa’s developmental interests on a global scale.
Agenda 2063, according to the AU, serves as Africa’s blueprint for economic and human development.
The official investiture, according to the organisers, was part of the African union’s bold reform for Africa business initiative.
“Raheem’s years of experiences in the Maritime sector, as well as his roles as the Vice President of the Barge Operators Association of Nigeria (BOAN) and the Vice President of the Association of West African Environmental Managers and Allied Professionals (AWAEMAP), where he has been a vocal advocate for maritime efficiency and environmental standards were critical to his appointment as AU Ambassador.
“The Africa We Want,” was introduced in 2013 and the idea was to focus on the second aspiration, including an integrated continent founded upon the principles of Pan-Africanism and Africa’s Renaissance.
“Now that Raheem has been appointed as ambassador, he would champion the vision of “The Africa We Want”.
“He will assume a pivotal role in policy advocacy by advocating initiatives that propel the agenda’s objectives within the African continent and the international arena.
“The newly appointed ambassador is also saddled with driving the economic growth, driving strategies that address the continent’s most pressing challenges while harnessing its abundant opportunities.
“He would also work on regional collaboration by fostering cross-border collaboration and championing the interests of the African continent on the world stage,” it was stated.
In his remarks, Raheem expressed profound appreciation to the AU.
“I am profoundly honoured to accept this appointment as ambassador for the AU Agenda 2063.
“My decades of experience in maritime operations and logistics, including my leadership roles within BOAN and AWAEMAP, have shown that Africa’s true strength lies in seamless integration and strategic collaboration.
“From clearing operations to barge logistics, I have seen how efficient transport and trade corridors can transform economies.
“I am committed to applying these same principles of innovation and problem-solving to the broader continental stage.
“To achieve ‘The Africa We Want,’ we must take concerted action to drive economic growth and ensure Africa remains a dynamic force in the global arena.
“I look forward to collaborating with the Assembly to pave the way for a prosperous and harmonious future,” he stated.
Meanwhile, chairperson of the nomination and screening committee, Amb. Amara Thecla Orakwe, said the nomination of Raheem as the ambassador was a testimony of his achievements in the Maritime sector.
Orakwe stated that Ambassador Raheem’s contributions and achievements would further bolster Africa’s participation on global stage.
“This nomination serves as a testament to your remarkable contributions and achievements.
“Raheem’s specialised knowledge and wealth of experience will be instrumental in realising the visionary ideals of the AU Agenda 2063,” he stated.
