Philanthropist and business leader Tony Elumelu is poised to prioritize Africa’s economic transformation, youth employment, and energy transition during this year’s United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

As stated in a recent announcement, Elumelu will advocate for immediate action through various engagements, including a roundtable discussion at the Clinton Global Initiative alongside former U.S. President Bill Clinton, and an event co-hosted by the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Tony Elumelu Foundation (TEF), with WFP Executive Director Cindy McCain leading the initiative.

Elumelu will leverage his extensive experience in establishing industry-leading enterprises across Africa and the achievements of the Tony Elumelu Foundation’s impactful programs that empower young Africans. He is a pragmatic leader, urging Africa and its people to address their challenges with homegrown solutions while acknowledging the continent's duty to take initiative.

As the Chairman of the United Bank for Africa (UBA) Group and the pan-African investment firm Heirs Holdings, as well as the Founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Elumelu plays a pivotal role in advancing Africa’s transformation agenda and influencing the continent’s narrative on the global stage. His thought leadership and advocacy challenge traditional perspectives, presenting innovative approaches for collaboration and development.

The effectiveness of his foundation in fostering youth entrepreneurship as a means to alleviate poverty has been highlighted in case studies from prestigious institutions such as Harvard, Chicago Business School, Stanford, and Cambridge

Also, in a recent statement, Elumelu emphasised, “I have often said that there is nowhere else in the world you can reap the kind of investments as in Africa.

However, I am acutely aware of the fundamental challenges our continent faces. Addressing the issues of sustainable economic growth, youth unemployment, gender inequality, and Africa’s energy transition is critical not only for meeting the continent’s basic developmental needs but also for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and unlocking the immense economic potential that Africa offers.”