AfriPulse
Former United Nations Secretary-General, Ban Ki-moon, says the world cannot overcome its biggest crises — from climate change to sustainable development — without Africa at the centre of global solutions.
Speaking on Thursday at the Imo State Economic Summit 2025 in Owerri, themed “ _Unlocking Imo’s Economic Potential: Partnership, Investment, and Innovation,”_ the former UN chief said the continent’s past struggles have shaped its resilience, positioning it as a critical player in the future of the planet.
“I visited Nigeria several times before. My visit to Imo State today reminds me of enormous sufferings and difficulties that African people, particularly people in Imo State, should have overcome because of colonisation and subsequent war, as the Korean people did, surmounting its painful and turbulent history,” he said.
Ban Ki-moon stressed that Africa’s role in tackling global problems is not just important — it is indispensable.
> “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,” he said.
The former South Korean foreign minister noted that true global sustainability cannot be achieved unless the world prioritises Africa’s unique vulnerabilities and opportunities.
“I have also tirelessly advocated for climate adaptation and resilience in Africa, including through my active participation and strong support at important events, including the Africa Climate Summit,” he said.
“In this regard, while serving as Secretary General, I have been repeatedly stating that without addressing the African challenges, we will never be able to declare that we are living in a sustainable world. This commitment is continuing.”
He warned that the world is “running out of time” to avert the worst climate consequences and urged political leaders across continents to stay committed to emission cuts and the Paris Agreement.
Ban Ki-moon also called out the global imbalance Africa faces in climate impact versus responsibility, saying:
“Although 54 African countries contribute only 4 per cent of global emissions, they remain among the worst affected by climate disasters.”
The summit drew a high-profile audience, including Vice President Kashim Shettima; former UK Prime Minister, Boris Johnson; Governor Hope Uzodinma; former President of Mauritius, Ameenah Gurib-Fakim; and Minister of Finance, Wale Edun.
Industrialist Aliko Dangote and representatives of AFREXIM Bank were also in attendance.
The former UN boss’ message was clear: if the world hopes to secure a sustainable future, Africa must not just be supported — it must be empowered as a global leader.
Source: NationalAccordNewspaper | Read the Full Story…
