Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, Nigeria’s former vice president has said that Africa continues to suffer disproportionately from the impact of climate change even with its minimal contribution to greenhouse gas emissions.
Osinbajo, who made this known while delivering a guest lecture at the 23rd S.L. Edu Memorial Lecture, organised by the Nigeria Conservation Foundation, highlighted the urgency of adopting climate-positive growth to foster sustainable economic development across Africa.
The lecture, themed, “Greening Africa’s Economies: Can Climate-Positive Growth Deliver Prosperity?” underscored the importance of environmental conservation in driving prosperity on the continent.
He said, “As Africa faces the twin challenge of development and climate action, the NCF lecture underlined the continent’s potential to lead a global transition to sustainable growth. With visionary leadership and global support, Africa could transform its challenges into opportunities for a greener and more prosperous future.
“On the paradox of Africa’s climate crisis, while the continent contributes minimally to global greenhouse gas emissions, it suffers disproportionately from climate impacts. Studies predicting significant sea-level rise threatening major African coastal cities, and the compounded challenges of extreme poverty, food insecurity, unemployment, and energy deficits.
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“Africa is the least emitter of greenhouse gases but is warming faster than other continents. Over 600 million Africans lack access to electricity, while 950 million lack clean cooking fuel. Energy poverty exacerbates extreme poverty and limits human development opportunities.”
Osinbajo described climate change as the most serious global challenge facing humanity, emphasising the need for visionary approaches to address its impacts.
He proposed a shift towards climate-positive economic growth, urging African nations to avoid the carbon-intensive industrialisation pathways adopted by developed countries.
He warned that “Replicating such models could make Africa the leading emitter of greenhouse gases by 2050. Instead, he called for the continent to harness its abundant renewable energy resources to pursue green industrialisation and sustainable development.
“Africa has the potential to become the first true green industrial civilisation. By leveraging our vast renewable energy resources, young entrepreneurial talent, and natural assets, we can create low-carbon manufacturing hubs and protect our ecosystems. This approach will not only drive economic growth but also generate jobs and alleviate poverty,” Osinbajo stated.
Story was adapted from the Guardian.
