Yemi Osinbajo urges African governments to prioritize citizen welfare

Former Nigerian Vice President Yemi Osinbajo has called on African leaders to redefine their approach to governance by treating citizen welfare not just as a social obligation, but as a fundamental economic investment. Delivering the keynote address at the Good Governance Africa (GGA) Annual Lecture in Accra on October 22, 2026, Professor Osinbajo argued that the path to sustainable development on the continent lies in enhancing the capabilities and economic opportunities of the population. He noted that the prosperity of nations is inextricably linked to the well-being of their people. The former Vice President emphasized that development policies must become more citizen-centric to be effective in the long term. He highlighted that the strength of public institutions is directly tied to their responsiveness to the grievances of the people. According to Osinbajo, when governments prioritize the well-being and justice of their citizens, they build the necessary public trust required for institutional stability and national growth. He stressed that justice systems, in particular, must ensure that all individuals have access to fair and timely remedies, as justice is a prerequisite for a stable economic environment. The lecture also addressed broader issues of accountability and systemic reform across the continent. Robert Rose, the Founder of Good Governance Africa, spoke in support of Osinbajo’s themes, specifically highlighting the need for robust mechanisms to tackle cross-border corruption. Rose advocated for the establishment of an International Anti-Corruption Court (IACC), which is currently projected to be operational by 2028. This proposed court is seen as a vital tool for addressing grand corruption that often undermines the very welfare investments Osinbajo championed, ensuring that resources meant for the public are protected from illicit diversion.