Sahara Power’s Kola Adesina Advocates for Investment in Education Across Africa
Kola Adesina, the Group Managing Director (GMD) of Sahara Power Group, recently urged Nigeria and other African nations to prioritize investments in education as a catalyst for progress on the continent. His remarks were delivered during a guest lecture at the 7th Artur Mbenafo Lecture, held in honor of the 96th birthday of the late Chief Justice Arthur Mbanefo, a key benefactor of the Artur Mbenafo Digital Research Center (AMDRC) at the University of Lagos (UNILAG).
Adesina’s lecture bore the title “Illuminating Africa: From Rhetoric to Results – Why, How, Who and When,” aiming to challenge current perceptions on education and its pivotal role in development. The event attracted a diverse audience, including former Attorney-General Chief Bayo Ojo, Senator Bode Olajumoke, Vanguard Newspaper Publisher Sam Amuka-Pemme, and several other dignitaries from academia and the banking sector.
During his address, Adesina emphasized the need for a comprehensive approach to education, stating, “We must relentlessly invest in education, not just in access to classrooms, but in the quality of learning. This includes investing in skills development, guidance, health, and psychological well-being.” He argued that neglecting investment in human capital compromises a nation’s future.
He elaborated on the transformative impact of providing robust training across various sectors, asserting that every engineer, nurse, entrepreneur, and young woman deserves a chance to thrive. According to Adesina, these are the essential long-term investments that can shape a prosperous society.
Adesina pointed out that educational institutions in Africa often struggle with inadequate funding, stating, “We are entering a new era, and the analog period is over.” He highlighted how many citizens have yet to experience consistent institutional support or reliable public services, underscoring the importance of building a well-functioning Africa through intentional investment and strategic planning.
The GMD also discussed critical components necessary for Africa’s progress, such as trust, cooperation, human capital development, and the embracing of technology. He defended Sahara Power Group’s decision to invest in UNILAG, commending the accomplishments of Vice-Chancellor Professor Folasade Ogunsola during her tenure.
Professor Ogunsola, in her remarks, emphasized that the dialogue initiated by the lecture extends beyond mere declarations, aiming to establish actionable pathways for sustainable development and digital transformation. She reflected on the late Arthur Mbanefo’s legacy as a philanthropist and politician, who laid the groundwork for the vibrant academic and innovative hub that the AMDRC has become.
Ernest Ebi, who chaired the lecture, expressed confidence that the discussions would foster valuable dialogue and innovative thinking regarding the pressing challenges facing the continent today. He noted that in an era marked by rapid technological disruption and economic transformation, the ability of societies to innovate and create knowledge is paramount for their future competitiveness and prosperity.
Ebi further articulated the pivotal role African universities must play, urging them to evolve beyond their traditional educational mandates to become proactive centers of innovation, policy development, and social impact. He asserted that universities should focus not only on research output but also on how their findings can translate into real-world solutions to improve lives, emphasizing that Africa’s vast pool of talent and creativity must be effectively harnessed for greater impact.
