Princeton University hosted former Nigerian Vice President Prof. Yemi Osinbajo for the third Africa World Initiative (AWI) lecture, titled “Resolving Africa’s Triple Conundrum: Debt, Climate and Development.”
In his address, Osinbajo argued that Africa’s long-term prosperity depends on treating debt relief, climate action, and human-centred development as interconnected priorities rather than competing policy goals. He emphasized that meaningful progress requires pursuing all three simultaneously to create sustainable economic and social outcomes across the continent.
Osinbajo, who also served as the inaugural occupant of the AWI guest office, engaged with a wide range of Princeton scholars and community members. Among them were faculty members Jennifer Widner, Denise L. Mauzerall, and Leonard Wantchekon, as well as fellows from the Liechtenstein Institute on Self-Determination.
He also met with student groups including the Princeton Nigerian Student Association, African Student Association, African Graduate Student Association, Society for African Internationals, Black Student Union, and the Princeton Association of Black Women. According to Osinbajo, discussions with students were marked by “rigorous, hopeful, and future-facing” questions—qualities he said embody the spirit required for Africa’s next chapter.
Osinbajo expressed appreciation to Professor Chika Okeke-Agulu, Director of the Africa World Initiative, as well as team members Tim Waldron and Anna Cheluget, for what he described as a warm invitation and generous hospitality during his visit.
