UN Reaffirms Commitment to Supporting Nigeria’s Development

The United Nations (UN) has reiterated its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s aspirations for peace, prosperity and sustainable development.

United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Mallick Fall gave the assurances while delivering his remarks at a youth event in Abuja, Thursday, being part of activities marking the 79th anniversary of the United Nations.

He highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role in advancing multilateralism and international cooperation, describing her as a global “rising star”.

“Since joining the United Nations in 1960, Nigeria has continuously demonstrated a deep commitment to global peace, often by sending its sons and daughters to support UN peacekeeping efforts in some of the world’s most challenging environments.”

“Nigeria is a rising star and the giant of Africa, renowned for its brilliant, resilient, and innovative people. Your determination, courage, and resilience have established Nigeria as a vital intellectual, political, economic, and innovative force on the continent and beyond. Even amid challenges, Nigeria has consistently shown strength, unity, and a forward-looking vision.”

Emphasizing the UN’s dedication to supporting Nigeria’s priorities, Fall highlighted areas of continued collaboration with Nigeria.

“Key areas include enhancing educational access, addressing hunger and malnutrition, combating climate change, and ensuring gender equality. The UN’s commitment also extends to tackling health challenges, fighting crime, and harnessing the digital economy to drive sustainable growth and youth empowerment in Nigeria.”

“As Nigeria aspires to achieve its Agenda 2030 goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN remains a steadfast partner. The UN is with Nigeria every step of the way.”

He used the occasion to urge youth of the country to seize opportunities in education, skills development, and innovation to lead Nigeria and the world into a better future, in line with the recently adopted “Pact for the Future” initiative. 

It would be recalled that the UN, together with the Nigerian government and stakeholders, has committed to investing in young people’s social and economic development, promoting human rights, and amplifying youth participation in national and international arenas.

Earlier in her remarks, Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme, Elsie G. Attafuah called on youth of Nigeria to take advantage of UN’s numerous initiatives and interventions to enhance their skills and contribute meaningfully to the development of Nigeria.

Also speaking, Nigeria’s Minister for Youth Development, Ayodele Olawande reiterated the commitment of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to tackling youth unemployment, even as he highlighted ongoing efforts towards empowering youth of the country.

Adding his voice, Minister for Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar poured encomiums on the United Nations for its support to the development of Nigeria, reiterating the country’s readiness to continue to partner with the global body.

Delivering the closing remarks, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo - WHO Rep expressed gratitude to the govt and partners for their continued support to the UN at a time when its founding purposes are challenged globally.

Highlights of the event were remarks by dignitaries, special displays by youth present, panel discussions, among others.

The event was attended by very important dignitaries, among whom are Nigeria’s Attorney general and Minister for Justice, Mr. Lateef Fagbemi, SAN and other top government officials, heads of UN agencies in Nigeria, civil society representatives, development partners, members of the diplomatic corps and young Nigerians.