Abayomi Susan
Unity Bank Plc, in collaboration with leading climate innovation experts, has called for greater investment in the green economy and the adoption of advanced technologies as essential drivers of economic resilience and tools for mitigating the impact of climate change on vulnerable communities across Africa.
The call was made during a 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 and stakeholders to examine the human, economic, and institutional implications of climate change, while highlighting practical solutions to address its growing effects.
In his opening remarks, the Bank’s Head of Strategy and Innovation, Ibukun Coker, stressed the urgency of tackling climate risks from both social and business perspectives. He noted that climate change is no longer a distant concern but a pressing reality with direct consequences for individuals, businesses, and economies. He added that Unity Bank remains committed to integrating sustainability into project financing, supporting enterprises, and promoting solutions that strengthen community resilience.
The webinar featured Chinwe Udo-Davis, Founder and CEO of Instollar, and Oluwatosin Ajide, Programme Manager at the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre. Both speakers shared insights on the causes of climate change and strategies for mitigation and adaptation.
Udo-Davis highlighted the unequal impact of climate change, noting that underserved communities often bear the greatest burden due to factors such as energy poverty, environmental degradation, and limited access to sustainable alternatives. She emphasized the need for deliberate investment in clean energy solutions that are accessible and scalable.
Ajide, on his part, underscored the importance of coordinated, system-wide approaches to addressing climate challenges, stressing the need for alignment across innovation, policy, financing, and implementation. He called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to drive sustainable and inclusive solutions.
The session also examined emerging opportunities in climate technology, renewable energy, and ecosystem financing, reinforcing the critical role of innovation and cross-sector partnerships in building long-term resilience.
By hosting the webinar, Unity Bank reaffirmed its commitment to fostering sustainability-focused dialogue and supporting initiatives that promote responsible growth and environmental stewardship. The initiative also reflects the Bank’s broader strategic focus on environmental sustainability and financial inclusion.
