One hundred years and two days. On May 31, 2026, Abdoulaye Wade, founder of the Senegalese Democratic Party and former President of the Republic, will reach a historic milestone. On the occasion of this centenary of the "Pope of Sopi," geographer Omar Sadio, author of the book "Icon Wade," launched a passionate plea: "Complete the University of the African Future, a flagship project envisioned by Wade and a symbol of his ambition for a modern Senegal. A whole life devoted to politics, science, and the vision of an African future."

During the book launch at the Ziguinchor cultural center, Omar Sadio recalled that the construction project, overseen by Minister Marie Ba Aïdara, had reached 70% completion in 2012, when Wade left office. "This is an appeal I am making to President Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye. The African University of the Future, this infrastructure project so dear to President Abdoulaye Wade, must be completed," he insisted to an attentive audience.

In his essay, the author dedicates a chapter to Wade's political and scientific trajectory, describing him as a "multidimensional, well-rounded, visionary man." For him, associating the former president's name with this university would be a lasting tribute to his political and scientific achievements.

The panelists present, including Professor Omar Sall and economist Thierno, confirmed this view: "Abdoulaye Wade is simply exceptional, with his vast knowledge, but he remains a simple man, a disciple, a pragmatic scientist."

Beyond the celebration, Omar Sadio sees the completion of the African University of the Future as a powerful gesture: to honor Wade's legacy, send a message to young people, and place science and territorial development at the heart of the national project. "Completing this project is to honor Abdoulaye Wade and permanently inscribe his legacy in the African academic and scientific landscape," he concludes.