Former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, says Africa possesses the capacity to provide answers to some of the world’s toughest problems, especially those linked to climate change and global development.
He delivered the message on Thursday at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, an event themed “Unlocking Imo’s Economic Potential: Partnership, Investment, and Innovation”.
Reflecting on his previous visits to Nigeria, Ban Ki-moon recalled the hardships endured by African nations, noting that the struggles faced by the people of Imo State mirror the difficult journey of Koreans who overcame historical trauma caused by colonisation and conflict. He said Africa’s experience places it in a unique position to contribute meaningfully to global solutions.
He emphasised that “Africa today holds the keys to unlocking so many solutions to current global challenges that humanity and our planet are facing, including climate change and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.” According to him, no meaningful progress toward sustainability can occur unless Africa’s distinct challenges are addressed with urgency and fairness.
The former South Korean foreign minister reiterated his long-standing advocacy for stronger climate resilience on the continent, recalling his involvement in several initiatives, including the Africa Climate Summit. He explained that his stance has always been clear: without confronting Africa’s vulnerabilities, the global community cannot claim to have secured a sustainable future.
Ban Ki-moon also cautioned that time is running out to prevent severe climate consequences, insisting that political leaders must honour their commitments to emissions reductions despite recent global difficulties. According to him, the effects of climate change are no longer predictions but lived experiences for millions across the world.
He highlighted the inequality in the consequences of climate change, noting that “although 54 African countries contribute only 4 per cent of global emissions, they remain among the worst affected by climate disasters.” He underscored that this imbalance makes it even more urgent for the international community to act decisively.
The summit drew several high-profile attendees, among them Vice President Kashim Shettima, former United Kingdom Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, former Mauritius President Ameenah Gurib-Fakim and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun. Also in attendance were renowned industrialist Aliko Dangote and officials from AFREXIM Bank.
What You Should Know
Ban Ki-moon used his appearance at the Imo State Economic Summit to reinforce Africa’s crucial role in shaping global solutions, particularly in climate action and sustainable development.
He argued that the world cannot achieve meaningful progress without prioritising the continent’s challenges, especially given its minimal contribution to global emissions despite facing the harshest climate-related impacts.
His message broadened the summit’s focus, linking Imo State’s economic drive to wider global conversations on resilience, governance and equitable development. His remarks also served as a reminder that Africa’s stability and progress are essential for a sustainable global future.
