Full text: Dr Sam Jonah's speech at Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Lectures and Special Congregation
Source: myjoyonline

As the Chancellor of this great University, I am honoured to be chairing this prestigious lecture series which is dedicated to the memory of our first President of the Republic, Osagyefo Dr Kwame Nkrumah. Osagyefo’s legacy is one that resonates not only within Ghana but throughout the entire continent of Africa and beyond. Osagyefo is universally recognised as the greatest leader in the post-colonial era of Africa, for good reason. His pivotal role in the emancipation of Africa from colonial rule is an achievement that reverberates through the annals of history. He was a visionary whose ideas and leadership transcended his time, leaving an indelible mark in the course of history. Indeed his inspirational leadership continues to inspire generations everywhere. What sets Osagyefo apart is not only his historical significance but also the enduring relevance of his ideas and insights. He foresaw and wrote extensively about the multifaceted challenges that Africa faces today, encompassing political, social and economic dimensions. His ability to articulate these challenges with clarity and propose solutions underscore his status as a pre-eminent thinker and doer. Osagyefo’s unwavering commitment to serving the interests of the common man remains a guiding light for our leaders today. His achievements, both in terms of Ghana’s independence and his broader pan-African vision, are nothing short of legendary. His legacy has only grown more profound and celebrated since his passing. This is, in large part, due to his ability to articulate the myriad political, social and economic challenges that Africa continues to grapple with today. He, without a doubt, had intense passion and commitment to the welfare of the common man. His ideas continue to shape the aspirations of leaders and citizens striving for a better future in Africa and indeed the world at large. This lecture is an opportunity to reflect on his profound contributions, honour his memory and engage in thoughtful discussion about the enduring relevance of his ideas. Importantly, it is an opportunity for us to contemplate how Osagyefo’s vision can guide us in addressing the many challenges that still face our great continent. For today and tomorrow, Prof. Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong, who will be introduced later, will deliver a lecture on the theme, “Diaspora, Pan-Africanism and Spiritual Awakening: Nkrumah’s Years Abroad as Head of State”. We look forward to a meaningful, insightful and indeed intellectually stimulating discourse that will pay tribute to a truly remarkable man. Let us use these lectures as a catalyst for positive change and continued progress in Africa. In keeping with the tradition of the University, our distinguished Speaker will be honoured with an Honorary Degree. Congratulations in advance Prof. Akyeampong! I will end my remarks by thanking all of you for joining us in the celebration of a truly exceptional leader. God bless you all! I believe the lecture has been meaningful, insightful and indeed intellectually stimulating and a befitting tribute to Dr. Nkrumah. I hope we are all taking home very useful lessons from the lecture. I look forward to seeing all of you here tomorrow for the continuation of the lecture and conferment of an honorary degree on the Speaker. Thank you all for coming.