LAGOS, Nigeria

Former President Uhuru Kenyatta has hailed Africa’s youth as the continent’s greatest asset, urging them to lead with courage, integrity and vision, saying Africa’s transformation will be driven by its own people rather than external solutions.

Mr Kenyatta spoke on Wednesday night during the Future Africa Leaders Awards (FALA) 2025 ceremony at the Loveworld Nation Arena in Lagos, Nigeria, where he delivered the keynote address at the invitation of Pastor Chris Oyakhilome.

He said Africa’s true wealth does not lie beneath its soil but in the minds and hearts of its people.

“We have been told of the great wealth beneath Africa’s soil, but our greatest resource is within the minds and hearts of our young people,” Mr Kenyatta said.

“You are not leaders of tomorrow. You are leaders of today who are shaping tomorrow.”

The former Head of State commended the award recipients for choosing service, innovation and community impact, saying they represented a growing culture of values-based leadership on the continent.

“Each of these young men and women chose service over self, community over comfort, and vision over fear,” he said.

“We honour not just what they have done, but who they have become.”

Mr Kenyatta stressed that leadership is defined by transformation, not titles, and called on young Africans to deploy their talents with transparency and accountability.

He said Africa does not lack ideas or energy but requires leadership anchored in values, guided by vision and accountable to the people.

The former president praised Pastor Chris Oyakhilome for founding the Future Africa Leaders Foundation, describing it as a platform that nurtures purpose-driven leadership among young Africans.

“This is a platform that not only celebrates success but instils purpose,” he said.

Mr Kenyatta also paid tribute to former Nigerian President Mr Olusegun Obasanjo, whom he referred to as “Baba,” citing his continued role in mentoring Africa’s next generation of leaders.

During the event, Mr Kenyatta delivered his New Year goodwill message, wishing Africa and the world peace, wisdom and prosperity, and calling for renewed faith in Africa’s ability to shape its own destiny.

“May Africa rise--built by Africans, strengthened by our unity, and guided by leaders committed to service,” he said.

The Future Africa Leaders Awards, founded by Pastor Chris Oyakhilome, annually recognise young Africans who have demonstrated exceptional leadership in education, youth empowerment and mentorship.