Africa
FOUNDER of Loretta Health Initiative, an NGO, Dr Loretta Ogboro-Okor, has called on Africans to shift their attention from celebrity lifestyle to addressing issues of poverty, conflict and underdeveloped infrastructure.
Ogboro-Okor, made the call in Abuja on Monday, while reacting to the global debates surrounding Kanye West and his wife’s controversial appearance at the 2025 Grammy Awards.
The celebrities’ bold fashion choices ignited varied reactions from some Africans who celebrated it while others described it as “shameful”.
Ogboro-Okor told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that celebrity fashion and lifestyle was simply a “distraction” from the real issues affecting Africa.
“My concern is not the spectacle itself, but how it overshadows the urgent issues Africa is grappling with.
“Our focus had remained on a celebrity moment. This should be the least of our concerns when there is war in Congo, economic distress in other African countries with millions suffering from poverty and conflict.
“The ongoing conflict in Congo, where millions have been displaced was in contrast with the obsession over celebrity fashion and material wealth.
“Africa should not be consumed by the spectacle of global celebrity culture, which often distracts us from addressing the continent’s most urgent challenges,” she said.
She stressed the need for a collective focus on tackling systemic problems such as poverty, conflict, underdeveloped infrastructure and other pressing issues facing the continent.
Ogboro-Okor pointed out the disconnect between the celebrity culture that dominated the online space and the severe crises affecting millions across the continent.
She also lamented the growing competition for luxury goods and a lifestyle that many could not afford, while millions lack access to basic necessities.
According to her, this fixation with fleeting trends highlight Africa’s misdirected priorities.
“No one will love us more than we love ourselves as Africans,” she said, urging fellow Africans to focus on family, community, and nation-building rather than materialism or fame.
“While the continent is rich in resources, it continues to be exploited and distracted by external validation. Africa must look inward to achieve real progress.
“It is time for Africans to take control of their future and focus on self-sufficiency, building stronger communities, and addressing systemic issues that hinder development.”
She urged Africa to stop being passive observers of its own destiny and start prioritising what truly matters.
She said, “the time for meaningful change is now. We must act collectively to transform Africa’s future”. (NAN)
A.I
Feb. 17, 2025
Tags: Dr Loretta Ogboro-Okor
