Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari has urged the world to support Africa's quest to develop, industrialize and eliminate unemployment.

Speaking at the 74^th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Tuesday, Buhari urged world leaders to help the continent harness its full potential, saying the entire world stands to gain when Africa moves forward.

"Current attempts to help develop Africa by industrial countries are un-coordinated and plainly incremental. We have the skills, the manpower and the natural resources, but in many instances, we lack the capital, hence my plea for industrial countries to take a long-term view of Africa. We request you to come and partner with us to develop the continent for the benefit of all." Buhari said.

Africa is dogged by high cases of unemployment and underdevelopment, with experts saying the continent's potential largely lies untapped.

"A coordinated multilateral effort should be set in motion to utilise and maximise the use of the enormous resources on the African continent for the benefit of all nations. Investing partners will be able to recoup their investments manifold over time.” President Buhari said in his address.

The Nigerian leader travelled to New York on Sunday, and was accompanied by top government officials, including seven cabinet ministers and three governors.

UNGA 74 opened on 17 September, though the first day of the high-level General Debate was held on Tuesday and will run until 30 September.

A total of 143 heads of state and government have been confirmed to speak in the debate.

Source: Nigerian Presidency