Mr Masudur Rahman, Bangladeshi High Commissioner to Nigeria has charged African leaders to promote the ideals of peace and unity in developing the African continent.
Rahman made the call on Tuesday in Abuja at a symposium to mark the 50th anniversary of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, founding father and first president of Bangladesh.
The theme of the symposium is “Vision of Bangladesh’s father of the nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for a peaceful and prosperous world”.
He said the symposium which was organized in collaboration with Nigeria’s Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR), was put together to celebrate the legacy of the Bangladeshi visionary peace builder.
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman led Bangladeshi liberation struggle in 1971 and subsequently became the first president of the Provisional Government of Bangladesh between April 1971 and January 1972.
He then served as Prime Minister between January 1972 and January 1975.
He finally served as President again from January 1975 till his assassination in August 1975.
The High commissioner highlighted the enduring legacy of peace and commitment to nation building of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman before, during and after the Bangladeshi liberation war.
“The ‘peace philosophy’ of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman included areas like peace, humanity, survival of mankind, democracy and justice.
“His vision on peace crossed the boundary and reached at the global height through the regional space, with his knowledge, experience and wisdom, he tried to convince the regional and global leaders for peace,” he said.
Rahman consequently advised African and world leaders to be more selfless in nation building, just like the great Bangladeshi father of the nation.
“Bangladesh and Nigeria have a lot in common, so we need more leaders that will foster peace and unity in the development of the nation.
“We will continue to collaborate to promote peace and deepen bilateral relations between both countries,” he said.
Earlier, Dr Joseph Ochogwu, Director-General, Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution described the late icon as worth emulating.
“Sheikh Mujibur Rahman was a politician and statesman who is considered to be a driving force behind the independence of Bangladesh.
“As part of the celebration of this national unifier, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution and the Bangladesh High Commission collaborated to reflect on the life, historic values, mission and death of Sheikh Mujibur,” he said.
Ochogwu stressed the need for Nigerian leaders to transit for being politicians to statesmen while promoting peace and unity of the nation.
He said the Institute would continue to work with relevant stakeholders to promote peace and stability across the country.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the symposium was attended by diplomats, the academia and politicians.
