By Gideon Maxwell
Nigeria’s former Vice President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, has encouraged African leaders to be more strategic and further work towards a “just energy transition” in support of the UN’s goal of reducing energy-related greenhouse gas emissions through various forms of decarbonization.
Osinbajo, who is the global advisor of the Global Energy Alliance for People and Planet (GEAPP), spoke in Namibia, at the UNDP Regional Bureau of Africa Cluster Meeting held in the country from November 20 to 24, 2023.
In his keynote address focusing on the topic, “Leadership in Turbulent Times: Just Energy Transitions a Viable Pathway,” the Professor of Law engaged the audience as he set the pace for a practical approach to tackling climate change and fostering a sustainable future.
After his all-engaging address, he also had a robust question-and-answer session with the Regional Representatives and Deputy Regional Representatives across UNDP Africa.
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Summarising the variety of contributions and questions on how best to support Africa on its journey to the energy transition, Prof. Osinbajo referenced Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa, UNDP’s Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, who said it is achievable from “dependency to agency.”
He said, “The UNDP Africa leadership signals the UNDP Africa’s strong commitment to remain a tremendous force for good in Africa in the coming years.”
Prof. Osinbajo in his speech expressed his special thanks to Assistant Secretary-General and UNDP Assistant Administrator and Regional Director for Africa, Ms Ahunna Eziakonwa, the UNDP Deputy Assistant Administrator and Deputy Regional Director, Regional Bureau for Africa, Ms Noura Hamladji, UNDP Resident Representative for Namibia, Alka Bhatia, Deputy Minister, Ministry of International Relations and Cooperation, Hon Jenelly Matundu, Resident Representatives and Deputy Resident Representatives across UNDP Africa, Senior Leadership of UNDP Africa and the UN Country Team Namibia for such an engaging session.
