Vice President Professor Yemi Osinbajo has called on African governments and institutions to redefine development by placing social justice at the heart of economic growth. Speaking at the Ford Foundation’s 65th anniversary in West Africa held in Abuja, Osinbajo argued that despite Africa’s impressive GDP growth—being the fastest-growing continent—the general quality of life remains alarmingly low.
He noted a gulf between economic statistics and citizens’ realities, highlighting that GDP growth often fails to translate into jobs, education, healthcare, or improved welfare for the majority. Osinbajo stressed that true development starts from the bottom up, focusing on the well-being of ordinary people, ensuring fair access to opportunities and protecting rights.
Osinbajo also tied climate justice to social justice, warning of the economic toll climate change imposes on Africa, especially Nigeria, which faces millions of potential internal climate migrants by 2050. He urged global corporations to fund adaptation efforts and empower affected communities like those in the Niger Delta.
Linking good governance and anti-corruption to growth, Osinbajo emphasized that corruption cripples development and called anti-corruption efforts a vital social justice programme. He concluded that social justice is not charity but the foundation of sustainable, inclusive progress for Africa.
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