Captain Ibrahim Traoré of Burkina Faso Captain Ibrahim Traoré has redefined leadership paradigms in Africa and beyond. His model of people-centred governance has become a case study for current and aspiring leaders worldwide. Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s rise to power in Burkina Faso following the September 2022 coup has resonated far beyond the nation’s borders, positioning him as a prominent figure in the growing movement advocating for radical pan-Africanism, staunch anti-imperialism, and genuine African self-determination. His leadership, characterised by a defiant stance against Western domination and a focus on internal development, has triggered significant political, economic, and ideological reverberations across West Africa and the wider continent. These effects are particularly evident in the ongoing struggle against neocolonialism, the persistent pursuit of monetary sovereignty, and the re-evaluation of relationships with former colonial powers. This analysis delves into the multifaceted impact of Captain Traoré’s leadership, examining its consequences for regional stability, economic policies, ideological shifts, and the broader quest for African agency on the global stage. It explores the complexities of his approach, considering the potential benefits and the possible pitfalls associated with his vision for a revitalised and independent Burkina Faso, and its potential role as a catalyst for wider change throughout the continent. 1. Political & Ideological Impact A. Rejection of Western Neocolonialism ● Expulsion of French Troops (2023): ● Decisive Break with France: In 2023, under Captain Ibrahim Traoré’s leadership, Burkina Faso decisively expelled French military forces from its territory, marking a historic break from neocolonial influence. This action followed a similar move by neighbouring Mali, signalling a growing trend of West African nations rejecting the long-standing French military presence, which was doing more harm than good. ● Echoes of Anti-Colonial Sentiment: Many interpreted the expulsion as a rejection of French neocolonialism–a system where former colonial powers maintain economic and political domination over nominally independent nations. Public sentiment had increasingly turned against France, fuelled by convincing perceptions of French interference in domestic affairs and a failure to effectively address security challenges, particularly the ongoing threat of Islamist militant groups. ● Regional Inspiration: Burkina Faso’s move resonated across the region, emboldening anti-French movements and sentiments in other countries, including Niger, Chad, and Gabon. These nations also grapple with security concerns and questions about the effectiveness of French-led counter-terrorism efforts, leading to increased scrutiny of their relationships with France. Public discourse began to further question the benefits of these alliances, with many calling for greater autonomy and self-determination. ● Withdrawal from ECOWAS in 2024 (alongside Mali & Niger): ● Creation of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES): In 2024, Burkina Faso, in a coordinated move with Mali and Niger, announced its withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). The three nations formally established the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a mutual defence and economic cooperation pact, accompanying this dramatic decision. ● Challenge to ECOWAS’s Authority: The AES’s creation challenged the authority and influence of ECOWAS, an organisation widely perceived as pro-Western and failing to address the Sahel region’s specific needs and concerns. The AES was presented as an alternative framework for regional cooperation, focused on security, development, and the assertion of sovereignty. ● Shifting Geopolitical Landscape: The withdrawal from ECOWAS and the creation of the AES significantly weakened ECOWAS’s regional influence and strengthened a new bloc of countries led by military regimes. This reconfiguration of power dynamics has profound implications for regional stability, security cooperation, and the future of West African integration. B. Alignment with Russia and Alternative Partnerships ● Strengthened Ties with Russia and Wagner Group (Africa Corps): ● Deepening Military Cooperation: Ibrahim Traoré’s government significantly deepened military cooperation with Russia as a strategic move to combat the escalating jihadist insurgency within Burkina Faso. This shift involved Traoré’s government reducing reliance on traditional Western counterterrorism partners, particularly France, whose assistance they increasingly viewed as ineffective or politically encumbered; some even accused France of collaborating with terrorist groups to destabilise the region. ● Wagner Group (Now Africa Corps) Deployment: A key element of this cooperation was the deployment of Wagner Group mercenaries (now operating under the banner of “Africa Corps”). These fighters were brought in to provide direct combat support, training, and security assistance to the Burkinabé armed forces. Their presence aimed to bolster the state’s capacity to directly confront and contain the jihadist groups operating in the country, particularly in the volatile northern and eastern regions. This decision reflected a lack of reliable alternatives and a desire for a more assertive and less conditional approach to security. ● Mining Agreements and Economic Alignment: Shifting alliances, the Traoré government signed landmark mining deals with Russian corporations, centring on critical minerals including uranium and gold reserves. These agreements were strategically designed to bypass historically dominant French-controlled industries in the mining sector. Breaking from neocolonial economic structures, Burkina Faso expanded its partnership network to secure true sovereignty over its resource wealth.This resource-backed cooperation provides Russia with strategic assets and bolsters Burkina Faso’s revenue streams. ● Engagement with BRICS+ and China: ● BRICS+ Application: Seeking Economic Alternatives: Burkina Faso formally applied to join the BRICS+ economic alliance, signalling a clear ambition to diversify its economic partnerships and reduce its dependence on traditional Western financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and Western donor countries. This move reflects a broader trend among developing nations seeking alternative sources of development finance and a desire for greater representation in global economic governance. By joining BRICS+, Burkina Faso hopes to attract investment, gain access to new markets, and collaborate in South-South cooperation initiatives. ● Increased Chinese Infrastructure Investments: Burkina Faso has actively courted increased Chinese investment in critical infrastructure projects, including roads, energy (particularly renewable energy), and telecommunications. These strategic investments target Burkina Faso’s crippling infrastructure gaps while catalysing broader economic development. Further, they represent a deliberate effort to reduce Burkina Faso’s economic reliance on France, which has historically been a dominant economic player in the region. In contrast to Western lenders’ stringent requirements, China’s flexible infrastructure financing terms have positioned it as

Introduction Before discussing Nigeria’s potential, we need a clear understanding of the “Sleeping Lion” concept. We’ll first define the term in its broader context, exploring its common interpretations. Then, we’ll apply this definition directly to Nigeria, examining the unique characteristics and circumstances that lead to this characterisation, and asking ourselves what it will take to awaken that “Lion.” “Sleeping Lion” is an interesting and evocative metaphor often used to describe a person, nation, organisation, or even a concept with immense, untapped potential lying dormant or underutilised. It’s a recognition of inherent strength waiting to be unleashed. Just as a lion is the apex predator, the undisputed king of the jungle, commanding fear, respect, and dominance, a “Sleeping lion” embodies inherent strength, intelligence, capability, and resources that are not being expressed to their full potential. The power of the metaphor, on the one hand, lies in its suggestion of imminent and significant change. A sleeping lion is not weak; it’s simply resting. This concept implies that once awakened, triggered by the right circumstances, motivation, or catalyst, the “Lion” can achieve extraordinary feats, overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges, and reclaim its rightful place as a leader, innovator, or force to be reckoned with. Conversely, the phrase inherently inspires hope, resilience, and a profound belief in the possibility of transformation. It speaks to the idea that there’s latent greatness waiting for the moment to be released. Achieving this awakening usually needs a defined vision, committed effort, thoughtful strategy, and the readiness to capitalise on opportunities. Further, this metaphor can also carry a warning: underestimating a passive entity can have serious consequences when that entity finally awakens to its true power. The potential for constructive and destructive applications of this awakened power complicates understanding the term. Thus, this metaphor is about the potential, the responsibility, and the prospective impact of action. Nigeria as the Sleeping Lion of Africa The application of this metaphor to Nigeria resonates deeply as it captures her staggering promise and the frustrating obstacles hindering its ascent. Nigeria is, on paper, a powerhouse: Africa’s most populous nation, its largest economy, and a land overflowing with enormous human and natural resources. Nigeria possesses a large reserve of oil and gas, a wealth of diverse minerals, expanses of fertile land perfect for agriculture, a youthful and dynamic population, and a richly layered cultural heritage that captivates the world. Yet, despite these considerable advantages, systemic challenges that have prevented it from realising its potential have held Nigeria back. These challenges include deeply entrenched corruption, widespread insecurity across many states, inadequate infrastructure that stifles growth, and persistent political instability that undermines confidenceYet, like a sleeping lion, Nigeria’s greatness is not lost—only dormant, waiting for the spark that will unleash its full strength. The potential remains immense, and here’s why Nigeria remains a lion with boundless possibilities: 1. Untapped Human Capital: A Generation Ready to Roar Nigeria’s greatest asset is undoubtedly its people, particularly its vibrant youth. Over 60% of the population is under 25, representing a massive pool of energetic, creative, and resilient individuals. These young Nigerians are not waiting for opportunities; they are actively creating them. They are already making significant waves in various sectors, and some of them are: ● Tech: Nigerian tech companies like Flutterwave (a payment processing giant) and Andela (that trains and connects African software developers with global companies) are disrupting industries and attracting significant international investment. The Yaba district in Lagos has become a burgeoning tech hub, often dubbed “Silicon Lagoon,” showcasing the country’s growing innovation ecosystem. Other examples include Interswitch, Paystack (acquired by Stripe), and numerous startups focused on fintech, e-commerce, and agritech. ● Entertainment: Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, is the second-largest in the world in terms of output, producing a staggering number of films each year, which are consumed across Africa and the diaspora. Afrobeats, led by global superstars like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido, etc., dominate music charts worldwide, influencing fashion, dance, and popular culture. Nigerian artists are consistently winning international awards and collaborating with top global artists. ● Entrepreneurship: Across the country, Nigerians are starting businesses, solving local problems, and creating employment opportunities. From bustling markets filled with resourceful traders to innovative FinTech startups disrupting traditional banking. The entrepreneurial spirit is palpable. This resilience and drive are key ingredients for economic transformation. Once Nigeria fully leverages this demographic dividend by investing in education, skills development, and supportive policies, it can transform into a global powerhouse fueled by innovation and ambition. ● sector.Manufacturing: There are many industries across a diverse range of strategic sectors in the country; for example, in the food and beverage industry, with major players like Flour Mills, Nestlé, Dangote Sugar, among others. Then there’s a robust cement and construction materials sector (Dangote Cement, BUA Group, etc.). Beyond these core areas, the country is also endowed with the textiles and garments industry, automotive manufacturing and assembly ( Innoson Vehicles, Peugeot Nigeria, etc.), pharmaceutical (Emzor and Fidson Healthcare). Equally important, the multibillion-dollar Dangote Refinery and its related petrochemical products are revolutionising the energy sector both in Nigeria and globally. The list goes on. Numerous local Nigerian manufacturers are part of this group, and their products are now competing with top-tier global offerings in quality. 2. Economic Potential: A Sleeping Giant Ready to Awaken Despite facing economic headwinds, Nigeria remains Africa’s largest economy, possessing vast and diversified opportunities waiting to be unlocked. ● Agriculture: The agricultural sector has the potential to feed the nation and also become a major exporter. Just as seeds need water, soil and sunlight, Nigeria’s farm sector requires irrigation, technology and infrastructure to blossom into an economic cornerstone feeding both GDP and employment. ● Renewable Energy: With abundant sunshine and other resources, Nigeria is well-positioned to become a leader in renewable energy. Solar, wind, and hydropower investments can provide clean and affordable energy to power homes, businesses, and industries. ● Digital Innovation: Nigeria’s digital economy is experiencing rapid growth, fueled by expanding e-commerce, FinTech innovation, and a surge in digital

The year 2020 ushered in the devastating coronavirus pandemic disease, and its rapid spread has had profound social, health and economic impact globally, causing disruption to people’s lives, communities, businesses, and health systems and economies. Presently, an accurate estimation of human, economic, social, etc. damages caused COVID-19 is impossible, because the end of the calamity is still out of sight. Like all other organizations—local, regional, national as well as international, IAE isn’t indifference to the ongoing lamentable situation. However, we opted to take a step back, so that we could have an in-depth view, and analysis of the situation before contributing our quota in support of our geographical area of interest—Africa, in their fight against this monstrous and deadly disease.   COVID-19 respects no social class. Thus, we’ve seen many policy and decision-makers all over the world falling victims to this pandemic. Unlike policy-makers in most developed countries whose health system is not only highly developed, but also avoidable to the general population; that of African countries has been in absolute neglect for ages, to the detriment of the less-privilege section of the society. The rich and their families have always been flown out of their country for medical—even when they have just headache, and quite often, the cost of their treatment are being directly or indirectly paid by the tax-payers. With the ongoing pandemic, the situation is completely different, as the rich in African society couldn’t be flown-out; thus, they’re being subjected to the treatment by the professionals whose expertise they’ve been undermining; and the sector they have been neglecting, and in some cases, even destroying. We hope COVID-19 will force African policy and decision-makers to take public investment in the health sector in particular, and infrastructures in their country in general, very seriously, because perhaps similar predicament would happen in another sector of the society. Next comes the issue of the proposal and suggestion from some individuals and group of individuals and organizations in some Western countries who put across the idea of testing COVID-19 vaccine in Africa. Some of the billion Dollar or Euro questions that could be asked are the followings: How rational is it to test the vaccine in a COVID-19 least damaging area? Isn’t more logical for the said test to be first done in those countries where the product is being produced, who are actually having a pitiable COVID-19 causing situation? As it’s often said that “Charity begins at home”, do the proponents of COVID-19 vaccine test in Africa love African population more than the members of their family, friends, and neighbors, etc. who are dying or being infected of this deadly virus daily?   We know that there are many African leaders who have been directly or indirectly conned to accept using their population as a guinea-pig. As good leaders who supposed to lead by example, we suggest that those leaders first publicly do the test and also with their family, to demonstrate to their population of how good the test is. In spite that presently COVID-19 isn’t as widespread in the continent as it is elsewhere, we strongly advocate the strict implementation of the universally protection guidelines by the policy-makers, and the respect of the implemented policies by the general public, to prevent catastrophic situation as it is elsewhere. Here are some of the protective guidelines:   Wash your hands frequently Regularly and thoroughly clean your hands with an alcohol-based hand rub or wash them with soap and water. Why? Washing your hands with soap and water or using alcohol-based hand rub kills viruses that may be on your hands. Maintain social distance   Maintain between 1.5 – 2 metres distance between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing. Why? When someone coughs or sneezes they spray small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain virus. If you are too close, you can breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease. Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth Why? Hands touch many surfaces and can pick up viruses. Once contaminated, hands can transfer the virus to your eyes, nose or mouth. From there, the virus can enter your body; thereby, making you sick. Practice respiratory hygiene Make sure you, and the people around you, follow good respiratory hygiene. This means covering your mouth and nose with your bent elbow or tissue when you cough or sneeze. Then dispose of the used tissue immediately. Why? Droplets spread virus. By following good respiratory hygiene you protect the people around you from viruses such as cold, flu and COVID-19. If you have fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical care early If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek medical attention as soon as you possible can. Follow the directions of your local health authority. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on the situation in your area. Calling in advance will allow your health care provider to quickly direct you to the right health facility. This will also protect you and help prevent spread of viruses and other infections. Stay informed and follow advice given by your healthcare provider Stay informed on the latest developments about COVID-19. Follow advice given by your healthcare provider, your national and local public health authority or your employer on how to protect yourself and others from COVID-19. Why? National and local authorities will have the most up to date information on whether COVID-19 is spreading in your area. They are best placed to advise on what people in your area should be doing to protect themselves. Stay at home if you begin to feel unwell, even with mild symptoms such as headache and slight runny nose, until you recover. Why? Avoiding contact with others and visits to medical facilities will allow these facilities to operate more effectively and help protect you and others from possible COVID-19 and other viruses. If you develop fever, cough and difficulty breathing, seek