By Gideon Maxwell
August 16, 2025
Former Vice President of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, has called on African philanthropists and leaders to play a stronger role in advancing research, health, and development across the continent.
He made this appeal while delivering the keynote address at the gala celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Harvard University Center for African Studies.
Speaking on the theme “The Role of Philanthropy and Public Leadership in Advancing Africa-Focused Research and Impact,” Osinbajo underscored the importance of collaboration and investment in research that directly addresses Africa’s challenges.
“I had the pleasure of delivering the keynote at the gala celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Harvard University Center for African Studies, on the topic The Role of Philanthropy and Public Leadership in Advancing Africa-Focused Research and Impact,” he said.
Highlighting the role of African leaders in funding and spotlighting critical issues, Osinbajo stated: “The sustained collaboration between the centre and our host for the evening, the vibrant Apostle Folorunso Alakija, shows the powerful role that African Philanthropy can play in spotlighting African issues and funding critical research gaps for our people’s health and advancement.”
He also expressed gratitude to the organisers for recognising Africa’s growing voice in global research. “Special thanks to Professor Zoe Marks, Oppenheimer Faculty Director Harvard University Center for African Studies, and her team for the kind invitation to speak and the commendable work at the centre,” Osinbajo added.
The event, which marked a decade of the Centre’s contributions to African scholarship, brought together academics, philanthropists, and public leaders committed to shaping Africa’s future through research and innovation.
