Unity Bank, Experts Push Green Investment, Climate Innovation to Strengthen Economic Resilience

Unity Bank, Experts Push Green Investment, Climate Innovation to Strengthen Economic Resilience

LAGOS, April 22, 2026 – Unity Bank Plc has joined climate innovation experts in calling for increased investment in the green economy and accelerated adoption of emerging technologies as key strategies for strengthening economic resilience and mitigating the growing impact of climate change 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, policymakers, and development stakeholders to examine the human, economic, and institutional costs of climate change, as well as practical pathways toward adaptation and mitigation.

Speaking at the event, the Head of Strategy and Innovation at Unity Bank, Ibukun Coker, said climate change has evolved into a present and urgent threat that must be addressed across both public and private sectors.

“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 Chief Executive Officer of Instollar, and Oluwatosin Ajide, Programme Manager at the Nigeria Climate Innovation Centre, who both provided insights into the drivers of climate change and strategies for response.

Udo-Davis highlighted the uneven impact of climate change on vulnerable populations, stressing the need for inclusive and accessible solutions.

“The true cost of climate change is not evenly distributed,” she said. “Communities with the least resources are often the most affected, whether through energy poverty, environmental degradation, or limited access to sustainable alternatives. Addressing this imbalance requires intentional investment in clean energy solutions that are both accessible and scalable.”

On his part, Ajide called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, emphasizing the need for alignment between innovation, policy, financing, and implementation.

“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 highlighted emerging opportunities in climate technology, renewable energy, and ecosystem financing, with participants stressing the importance of innovation and cross-sector partnerships in building long-term resilience.

Unity Bank said the initiative reflects its ongoing commitment to sustainability-focused dialogue, responsible banking practices, and support for initiatives that promote environmental stewardship and financial inclusion.