Julius Malema in Nigeria calls for Africa to unite under one government

by Mathipa Phishego

Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) Commander in Chief, Julius Malema delivered a powerful speech in Nigeria, calling for immediate action toward African unity.

Speaking at the African Solidarity Forum (ASF) in Abuja. Malema urged leaders and citizens alike to push for the creation of a United States of Africa with one passport, one currency, and one Parliament.

“Africa must unite, not tomorrow, not in the future. Now,” said Malema. The crowd erupted in applause as Malema spoke directly to the people of Nigeria.

Emphasizing the country’s pivotal role in Africa’s political and economic future.Malema championed Pan-Africanism, the belief that African nations share a common destiny and must dismantle the borders created during colonial rule.

He called for borderless trade, a single African defense force, and unified governance. He said, “our division is the source of our poverty. Colonial borders benefit only those who continue to exploit us.”

The crowd included delegates from Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Senegal, and Nigeria, many of whom supported Malema’s vision for a borderless Africa. Malema highlighted that Nigeria as a key driver of continental change, referring to it as “Africa’s engine. If Nigeria stands, Africa stands. Your strength is our strength.”

He urged Nigerian leaders to lead the charge in building the United States of Africa. Encouraging youth participation and pan-African economic integration.

Local support surged online, where hashtags like #MalemaInNigeria, #AfricaMustUnite, and #UnitedStatesOfAfrica trended across African X (Twitter) and Instagram communities.

Addressing the youth, Malema delivered a clear call to action. “You are the generation of unity. Don’t wait for presidents. Don’t wait for permission. Organize. Mobilize. And build a new Africa.”

Students and youth activists responded with enthusiasm. With several Nigerian university unions pledging cross-border collaboration with youth movements in South Africa and East Africa.