UNFPA, Seplat, IHS, Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank Back Africa’s Development Drive

Nume Ekeghe 

The United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Seplat Energy Plc, IHS Towers, Coca-Cola, Sterling Bank and other development partners have reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating Africa’s sustainable development agenda through the Africa Social Impact Summit (ASIS) 2026.

Scheduled to hold in Lagos, the summit will bring together policymakers, business leaders, development finance institutions, investors and social innovators from across Africa.

 Speaking on UNFPA’s participation, Muriel Mafico, Resident Representative, United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) Nigeria, said: “Driving meaningful progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals requires strong partnerships and continuous investment in people specially women and youth. At the Africa Social Impact Summit, we are uniting governments, the private sector, development partners, and communities to foster innovative and inclusive solutions. This aligns with UNFPA’s focus on timely, scalable, and sustainable healthcare initiatives that aim to enhance lives, build resilience, and ensure no one is left behind on Africa’s path to a prosperous future.”

Commenting on Seplat Energy’s partnership, Roger Thompson Brown, Chief Executive Officer of Seplat Energy Plc, said: “At Seplat Energy, we recognise that education and youth empowerment are fundamental to Africa’s sustainable development. Partnering with the Africa Social Impact Summit provides a platform to contribute meaningfully to solutions that equip young people with the skills and opportunities needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving global economy.”

Speaking on Sterling Bank’s commitment to advancing sustainable development, Abubakar Suleiman, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Sterling Bank, said: “The future of Africa depends on our ability to build systems that create opportunity, strengthen resilience, and improve lives at scale. Through our partnership with ASIS, we are supporting meaningful conversations and practical solutions that drive inclusive growth and deliver lasting value to communities across the continent.”

Also speaking on the significance of the Summit, Olapeju Ibekwe, Chief Executive Officer of Sterling One Foundation, said: “The Sustainable Development Goals cannot be achieved by any one institution alone. ASIS was created to bring together the right voices, resources, and partnerships needed to accelerate progress across Africa.”