By: Femi-Adeniyi Joshua 

The Centre for Sustainable Development, University of Ibadan, held the 15th edition of its annual Ibadan Sustainable Development Summit on August 20, 2024.

This year’s 2-day summit addressed the theme, “A Planet in Crisis: Can This be Africa’s Opportunity to Evolve?”

In his opening address, read on his behalf by Professor O. Sonibare, Dean of the Faculty of Science, the Vice-Chancellor of the University, Professor Kayode Adebowale, commended the Centre for its consistent organization of the summit since its inception in 2010, particularly during the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.

He emphasized that “the Centre for Sustainable Development has provided essential leadership not only within Africa but also globally”.

Professor Adebowale noted that 2024 theme presents an opportunity for African countries and citizens to reshape their future into one that is more independent, prosperous, less vulnerable, and more united.

He reiterated that the elements necessary for Africa’s structural and economic transformation are already in place, paving the way for a continent that is more equitable, sustainable, and resilient.

He highlighted the numerous opportunities Africa has to turn its fortunes around by fostering intra-continental trade, utilizing its youthful population, and promoting a digital economy.

Similarly, the Director of the Sustainable Development Solutions Network and former Director of CESDEV, Professor Labode Popoola, who participated virtually, urged participants to think broadly.

He emphasized that Africa has the potential to overcome its current crises by leveraging its abundant natural resources.

The Head of the Department of Sustainability Studies, Professor S. O. Jimoh, stated that 2024 summit aimed to foster meaningful conversations that could help address global development challenges.

Keynote addresses were delivered by Dr. Renuka Thakore, Director of the Centre for Socio-Legal Studies at the University of Central Lancashire, United Kingdom; and Professor Peter C. Obutte, a renowned professor of Environmental Law and the current Dean of the Faculty of Multidisciplinary Studies at the University of Ibadan.

Participants in the summit included renowned scholars, leaders of thought, development practitioners, and policy makers.