Labour calls on African leaders to copy Cuban model of leadership
Ukpono Ukpong – Abuja
Nigerian workers under the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on African leaders to imbibe the leadership style of the Cuba which puts its people first in all matters noting that it is the only way to guarantee development of the region.
Speaking at the 6th African meeting of Solidarity with Cuba with the theme ‘Challenge of Afro-Cuba Relations in Building a New Humanity’ NLC President, Ayuba Wabba called for the lifting of 56-year economic embargo which has deprived Cuba from freely accessing the international market and trading with other countries.
“The Cuban people have the fundamental right to decide its political system without interference.
The 56-year economic embargo which stops Cuba from freely accessing the international market and trading with other countries, is counterproductive, unhelpful and should be lifted without further delay.”
Wabba which was represented by Comrade Denja Yaqub, noted that Cuba which has enjoyed at least 45 years of diplomatic relations with Nigeria has demonstrated unmatchable solidarity with the African people by sending thousands of construction workers, teachers and doctors to African countries including Nigeria.
“In sending thousands of soldiers to fight for Africa in Angola and Namibia which led to the military defeat of Apartheid and the liberation of Namibia and South Africa, Cuba displayed the greatest solidarity with the African people.
“Cuba sent hundreds of doctors to help fight and eliminate the Ebola plague in West Africa. Cuba is the only multiracial country in the world where racism is non-existent.”
Speaking further, he advised Nigerian leaders to copy Cuba by appointing competent persons into positions of authority rather than base appointments on ethno-religious and regional considerations.
“It is in Africa’s interest to follow the development path of Cuba which guarantees free and qualitative health and education for all its citizens, gender equality as well as its ability to locally produce medicine and vaccines for its people.
“The future of Africa lies in the Cuban model of a people united under a patriotic and clear leadership which puts its people first in all matters.
“Participants pledged total solidarity with the Cuban, Venezuelan, Saharawi and Palestinian peoples in their struggles for sovereignty, a right to their homelands and a right to decide their own future.” Said Wabba
