Centre urges African leaders to dismantle colonial structures to combat poverty

Dr Otive Igbuzor, founding Executive Director of the African Centre for Leadership, Strategy and Development (Centre LSD), has urged African leaders to dismantle lingering colonial structures that, he argues, continue to perpetuate poverty and limit the economic independence of African nations.

Speaking at a one-day conference on decolonisation and anti-racism in Abuja, Dr Igbuzor emphasised that these structures obstruct Africa’s path to inclusive and self-determined development.

He said the legacy of colonial exploitation has left behind systems that marginalise indigenous cultures and restrict economic growth.

He proposed that by integrating decolonisation and anti-racism principles, African countries could break free from these constraints and pursue development that reflects their values and aspirations.

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This approach, he explained, calls for indigenised social work, inclusive governance, and equitable partnerships grounded in Africa’s socio-cultural identity.

Igbuzor also recommended that: “African governments and development organisations should prioritise the integration of indigenous knowledge and languages within educational and social development frameworks. This includes creating curricula that reflect African history, values, and perspectives, thereby fostering a strong cultural identity and countering the colonial narrative.

“African countries should focus on policies that promote local production, self-sufficiency, and economic diversification. Regional trade initiatives, such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), should be strengthened to support intra-African trade, reduce dependency on former colonial powers, and promote local industries.

“Social work education and practice should be indigenised to reflect African socio-cultural realities. This involves using local methods, theories, and values in social services, enabling practitioners to offer support rooted in the lived experiences and needs of African communities.”

Monday Osasah, Executive Director of Centre LSD, described the conference as a call to action to dismantle systems of oppression and build a world founded on equity and justice, honouring both the legacy of ancestors and the ongoing struggles against systemic discrimination.

Senator Ede Dafinone (Delta Central) underscored the psychological effects of colonialism, noting that many Africans have internalised perceptions that associate value with whiteness.