Unity Bank, Experts Call for Green Investment and Climate Innovation to Strengthen Economic Resilience in Africa
By The The The People’s Voice Nigeria News
Unity Bank Plc, in collaboration with climate innovation experts, has called for increased investment in the green economy and the adoption of emerging technologies as key strategies for strengthening economic resilience and reducing the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities across Africa.
The call was made during a virtual webinar organised by the Bank to mark this year’s Earth Day, themed “The True Cost of Climate Change and Who Pays?” The session brought together climate experts, innovators, and development stakeholders to examine the human, economic, and institutional costs of climate change, while exploring practical solutions for mitigation and adaptation.
Speaking at the event, Ibukun Coker, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Unity Bank Plc, emphasised the urgency of integrating sustainability into business and financial decision-making processes.
“Climate change is no longer a distant or abstract challenge. It is an existential threat with direct consequences for individuals, businesses, and economies,” Coker said. “At Unity Bank, we recognise the role institutions must play in incorporating sustainability in project financing, supporting businesses, and promoting solutions that build resilience in communities where we operate.”
The webinar featured discussions from Chinwe Udo-Davis, Founder and CEO of Instollar, and Oluwatosin Ajide, Programme Manager at the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, who provided insights into the drivers of climate change and the need for coordinated responses.
Udo-Davis highlighted the unequal impact of climate change on underserved populations, stressing the need for inclusive and accessible solutions.
“The true cost of climate change is not evenly distributed. Communities with the least resources are often the most affected through energy poverty, environmental degradation, and limited access to sustainable alternatives,” she said. “Addressing this imbalance requires intentional investment in clean energy solutions that are both accessible and scalable.”
On his part, Ajide called for stronger collaboration between stakeholders to drive systemic solutions to climate challenges.
“Climate change is fundamentally a structural problem, and its solution requires a paradigm shift—from innovation and policy to financing and implementation,” he said. “Stakeholders must work collaboratively to drive solutions that are sustainable and inclusive.”
The webinar also examined emerging opportunities in climate technology, renewable energy, and ecosystem financing, with participants highlighting the importance of innovation and cross-sector collaboration in building long-term environmental and economic resilience.
Unity Bank said the initiative reflects its continued commitment to promoting sustainability-focused dialogue, responsible banking practices, and financial inclusion.
The Bank reaffirmed its broader strategic focus on environmental sustainability as a key pillar in its growth and community development agenda.
