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The Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. These are the goals the UN is working on in Nigeria:
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18 July 2023
Malala has transcended borders, cultures, generations – Amina J. Mohammed
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed has stated that the UN Messenger of Peace, Malala Yousafzai, had transcended borders, cultures, and generations, while her message and her passion had touched people the world over.
“I will never forget 10 years ago when she was in the UN, a young girl who rose to the podium at the UN and declared to the world in the strongest of voices. She said that: ‘One child, one teacher, one book, one pen can change the world’.” She said at a special event in Abuja co-hosted with Malala in observance of Malala Day, celebrated every 12 July.
At the event titled, “Addressing a decade of work for girls’ education”, Mohammed called on leaders at every level to heed Malala’s words and back that up with investments in education.
With more than 129 million girls out of school, Malala renewed her call for collective action to make sure the next generation of girls are able to learn and lead without fear. She also reflected on lessons learned over the last decade.
“I will tell you what I did not know then… one teacher, one activist, one parent — no one can change the world on their own. What is true is that change can begin with just one person,” said Malala Yousafzai. “To build a world where every child has access to 12 years of quality education, we must join forces. We must bring girls and governments together with activists and educators, parents and community leaders.”
The event focused on the transformative power of educating girls and marked a decade since Malala delivered her famed speech at the U.N. General Assembly at 16 years old.
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29 May 2023
Photo Exhibition of Nigerian UN Peacekeepers over the decades
As part of activities commemorating the 75th Anniversary of the UN Peacekeeping Missions, the UN in Nigeria organised a photo exhibition to highlight the contributions of Nigeria to the UN peacekeeping operations over the decades.
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25 February 2023
Hate speech can be both a precursor and a trigger of atrocity crimes – UN warns
The UN Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide, Alice Wairimu Nderitu, has warned that hate speech, especially if accompanied by policies and practices that discriminate against populations based on their identity often results in hate crimes, discrimination, and violence and can be both a precursor and a trigger of atrocity crimes, in particular genocide.
“Countering and addressing hate speech is crucial. In the Holocaust, and the genocides in Rwanda against the Tutsi and in Srebrenica, Bosnia Herzegovina, hate speech and the dehumanization of ‘the other’ was present during, after and long before violence broke out and such crimes were committed.” She said at a press briefing held on 24 February at the UN House in Abuja.
Nderitu emphasised that action aimed at countering and addressing hate speech must be at the heart of all prevention efforts. “Indeed, it all begins with words.” She said, “By addressing divisive and harmful language, we can avoid escalation of tensions that could result in violence. Measures to that effect can also help build societies that are resilient and inclusive.”
She explained that her role as Under Secretary General and Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide was not to decide whether Genocide, had taken or is taking place. “This is the responsibility of independent courts of justice that have the jurisdiction to make those judgements,” she informed, “Our focus is on prevention of genocide and related crimes, detecting risk factors with the objective of mitigating and deescalating them.” She informed.
On the 2023 elections in Nigeria, the Special Adviser on the Prevention of Genocide noted that election season in Nigeria had witnessed a surge in the use of inflammatory language, hateful and divisive rhetoric, and such hate speech was amplified at an unprecedented rate by digital technology.
Nderitu said further, “We know that the impact of hate speech makes those targeted more vulnerable to violence, exposes them to exclusion and discrimination, exacerbates underlying social and economic inequalities, and undermines social cohesion. We know too that hate speech particularly impacts on women differently as is often evidenced by their absence from political spaces. It also contributes to polarizing communities along identity lines, hampering dialogue and reconciliation.”
The United Nations Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser of Secretary-General on the Prevention of Genocide Alice Wairimu Nderitu is on an official visit to Nigeria this week ahead of the 25 February general elections, and she has met with government authorities, political leaders, representatives of civil society, traditional and religious leaders, and members of the international community for a better understanding of developments and views in the country.
She called on the media to play their invaluable role during electoral processes in educating, informing, raising awareness, and alerting on situations at risk, and countering narratives of hatred and segregation with verified facts.
The Under-Secretary-General acknowledged the work done by “my UN colleagues in the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS) led by Deputy SRSG Giovanni Biha and the UN Country Team in Nigeria led by Resident Coordinator Matthias Schmale in supporting Nigeria towards a peaceful election.”
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18 March 2020
A Coordinated Response to Coronavirus
On Wednesday, 11 March 2020, the World Health Organization (WHO) characterized the coronavirus (COVID-19) viral disease as a pandemic, but it is a pandemic that can be controlled. Coronavirus (COVID-19) is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus.
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, who heads the UN agency, said, in his statement, “Let me be clear: describing this as a pandemic does not mean that countries should give up.”
The UN Secretary-General urged all countries to take a comprehensive approach tailored to their circumstances – with containment as the central pillar. COVID-19 is affecting thousands of people, impacting countries’ health systems and having widespread social and economic effects. The UN entities working on development, the United Nations Sustainable Development Group, are supporting countries in their preparedness and response plans.
This page convenes sources of information and guidance from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations (UN) regarding the current outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
WHO is working closely with global experts, governments and partners to track the spread and to provide guidance to countries and individuals on measures to protect health and prevent the spread of this outbreak.
To stay up to date with the latest information, please visit:
World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019
Latest news on the United Nations’ response: https://news.un.org/en/events/un-news-coverage-coronavirus-outbreak
WHO guidance for countries: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/technical
Coronavirus (COVID-19) Situation: https://experience.arcgis.com/experience/685d0ace521648f8a5beeeee1b9125cd
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12 August 2021
Young people, Nigeria's greatest and most valuable resource - Edward Kallon
UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Nigeria, Edward Kallon, has reaffirmed that young people are Nigeria’s greatest and most valuable resource. "The quality and type of investments made in this human resource by government, determines the trajectory of development and how society can be envisioned in years and decades to come." He said on Thursday, 12 August, at the observance of the International Youth Day organised as part of events marking the 60th Anniversary of the Nigerian Institute of Internal Affairs (NIIA), and in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) in Lagos.
He explained that strategic investment in young people's education, health, security, employment, empowerment, effective civil participation, and overall development carried the potential for demographic dividends.
“Nigerian youth” according to Kallon, “are known globally as pacesetters. Not only are they highly skilled and educated, but they are also innovative and entrepreneurial. This country is one of the leading destinations for start-up investments, largely targeting and led by youth.”
The UN Resident Coordinator added that Fintech, e-commerce, and the digital economy were all driven by young people.
The Director General of NIIA, Prof. Eghosa Osaghae, in his welcome address, reiterated that there was hope for Nigerian youths, "and the hope can only be actualised by the youths themselves." He said further to the participants who were mainly undergraduates from four Universities, "As you look for change, see yourselves in the change process. Take note that digitalisation is not an option but a necessity. You must embrace technology and leverage on it to drive change."
Oniru of Iruland, Oba Abdul-Wasiu Lawal, commended the management of the NIIA and the United Nations for organising the event to celebrate the youths. He urged young people to embrace Agriculture in their quest for entrepreneurship.
Hon. Minister of Youth and Sport Development, Mr Sunday Dare, represented by the Special Assistant ICT and Corporate Relations to the Hon. Minister, Ms. Oluwakemi Ann-Melody Areola, explained that the youths must be met and engaged within their space.
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05 July 2025
UN chief Fall: Tinubu’s reforms gaining momentum
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall has undertaken a critical assessment of the President Bola Tinubu’s midterm performance and is persuaded that the economic reform of the administration is transforming the country positively, just as he shares interesting insights on other germane issues bordering on dwindling funds for social interventions, others. He spoke with Vincent Ikuomola. Excerpts:The United Nations fourth International Conference for Development scheduled for 30 June -4 July 2025 in Seville Spain, can you give an insight to what should be expected from the summit?Let me first say that this is one of the most important summits. As you know, we look at the SDG as one of the biggest social contracts between the world leaders and their people. And it looks at all walks of life in trying to bring well-being to people across the globe. Unfortunately, in the course of rolling out and implementing the SDG, humanity faced several challenges.I think the biggest one was the pandemic of COVID-19, then the economic downturn, and now we are seeing a resurgence of conflict almost across the globe. And these are impacting on the progress we make toward the SDG, and in a context where the time we have to bring them back on track is much shorter. Because now the span left, or the window left, is just less than five years, because the goal was for 2030.In this context, looking at financing, because one of the major obstacles to the acceleration is to find the resources to move ahead the agenda. In this context, I think having a global summit that looks at financing for development and financing for the SDG is some of the most important undertakings. That’s why this year, I think in Seville, world leaders, financial institutions, intergovernmental institutions will get together and look at the current financing architecture. And look at where we stand in terms of financing development, where the gaps are, and how we can collectively address it. I think talking about context, that’s what I wanted to say, just to highlight how crucial it is that this summit lead to a success of finding solutions for development.Looking at the current financing architecture, aid to developing countries has shrunk or totally cut off. So how do you think Nigeria can raise funds to bridge the gaps created?It’s true that one of the particularities of 2025 is that we have witnessed a significant decline in Overseas Development Assistance. Some big countries that used to contribute significantly to development and humanitarian assistance have abruptly cut their aid. Some countries are on the same path because of the increase they are having on their defence budget. And this is taking place at the expense of the traditional ODA, or Development Assistance, which was like a target of 0.7% of the GDP of the developed world. And now many countries are explicitly mentioning this. In the context of Nigeria, of course it has a significant impact because it will leave certain sectors, mainly the humanitarian sector, with a huge gap that needs to be addressed.Certain other sectors, like nutrition, health, education, used to be strongly supported by the development assistance. And through, sometimes, the United Nations or non-governmental organisations. And as you can see, most of those organisations or that architecture is being challenged now. We feel, and I think that’s the main takeaway I have in my engagement with members of the Nigerian government across the board. It’s a challenge, but also an opportunity. Maybe it’s a time, also, or a wake-up call for governments like Nigeria.But I think beyond Nigeria, governments in the developing world, maybe to step in and look how they can address this gap. And how they can take greater responsibility in addressing the needs of their population. And I feel that Nigeria was one of the first in the developing world to send that strong signal. If you remember, when the cut of USAID in the health sector happened, I think the Minister of Health managed to get an increased budget of more than $200 million to address the gap that this abrupt cut left, mainly in terms of procurement of some critical health commodities. We are seeing, also, and working with the government in this direction. Now, what it will call for is how we can increase the possibility of mobilising domestic resources. Now, in this regard, I think Nigeria has a huge impact, as you would see in the headline of the news. Because today, a new tax bill will be signed, and that tax bill is intended not only to harmonise, but to modernise, but to bring coherence in the different layers of taxes, which we believe will increase the revenue generated by tax. Because most of the space that governments have, usually, to spend on the social sector or to spend on development, is mostly linked and correlated with their ability to raise more tax. We know that Nigeria’s tax-GDP ratio is one of the lowest, and I think it has a huge potential to grow. And we are hopeful that, through that path, we can find additional resources that can be allocated to development. Let’s not forget that Nigeria has a GDP of around 450 billion U.S. dollars. You know, if you get one point in the increase of the GDP, it’s a massive amount of money that can address the issues of development. And we are hopeful that not only the ongoing economic reform, but at the same time the reform of the tax system and the new bill will help to expand the revenue collected by the state. I feel that the financing of development and the domestic resource mobilisation is not only something we look at through the state.We look at it also through the increased engagement of the private sector. Let’s not forget that if you look at the region, or the sub-region, or even sub-Saharan Africa, the Nigerian economy and Nigerian private sector is one of the most vibrant and the most active in terms of expansion. I was attending the African Import and Export Bank annual meeting and there was a panel on domestic resource mobilisation and financing development. And we have seen that there are a number of areas where an increase can happen in terms of private sector investing into sectors where they can generate employment, where they can improve sectors like agriculture, improve sectors like energy, mainly the transition toward renewable energy, that have a huge potential. A recent study made by ILO and UNDP indicates that just in doing the right transition toward renewable energy, 12 million jobs can be created in the energy sector. When it comes to agriculture, making it smarter, making it greener, can bring 3 more million jobs. Just to say that engaging further the private sector, creating the condition for increased investment of private capital into the development sector is also another avenue. But we also have other opportunities. One is, for example, addressing the illicit financial flow. Africa, for example, loses up to 90 billion US dollars a year on illicit financial flow. And 20% of that 90 billion dollars a year is coming from Nigeria. I think the Minister of Finance recently mentioned something which is between 16 and 17 billion US dollars lost every year.But I think that beyond even the illicit financial flow, there are other ways where Africa loses assets linked to the fact that most of the time the raw materials that are produced and for which a country like Nigeria is extremely rich, because of a lack of value chain, because of a lack of transformation on the ground, a lot of loss is experienced by the African economy in this. It is expected or projected that Africa will lose up to 500 billion dollars a year just in a flow that is linked to the lack or to the absence of value chain production. You take a sector like agriculture, 50 to 60% of the post-harvest produce is lost just because of lack of value chain transformation, because of lack of cooling systems, because of challenges in transportation.But just to say that the potential is extremely big. Maybe a last number I want to give in terms of financing and in terms of blending or innovative financing that can support development. You take, for example, remittance from the diaspora. Africa, I think, collects over 500 billion dollars of remittance a year, which, by the way, is far beyond the amount of assistance to development that the continent is receiving. And then, in a country like Nigeria, you have between 22 to 25 billion dollars a year that is coming from the diaspora, which to me also is another way where we can innovate financing. Now, in this context, the government’s role is not only to address the efficiency of management, to address the illicit flow that the country is experiencing, but also to create the environment that is conducive for the private sector to invest. Everyone talks about de-risking, which is something that is extremely important, improving the condition of production, improving security, training farmers so that the quality of their products is enhanced and be more attractive to the private sector, and giving to young people the skills they need to be able to create their own entrepreneurship, their own enterprises to expand the entrepreneurship among the young people. A number of, I think, directions are there whereby we can see a complete shift of paradigm. But I also think Nigeria has to be part of the global conversation, because one thing which is undeniable is that we have a global financial architecture which does not always work for a country like Nigeria.If you look at, for example, the credit rating agencies, the way they rate the economy in sub-Saharan Africa, or the way they rate African countries, sometimes people say that it’s a rating that is based on their perception, but not on the economic reality of the country. But now, how do you change? Because this is an architecture that was created 80 years ago, after the Second World War. Is it really fit? Is it really adequate for today’s world? This is also part of the conversation in which I think the government of Nigeria is playing a role.And I think a modified and a more favourable financial architecture could help Nigerians to access the capital market, to the government to maybe borrow at a rate that is much lower, and maybe to address also the debt burden that is strangling the economy. Because if you look at close to 40 or 49 percent of the public expenditure is used to pay the debt services. And I think this also has a huge impact on the margin the government has to invest in the economy, or in the social sector, or in the development sector.Most of the argument by Nigerians, or even those outside, is that Nigeria has the resources-the manpower, to make the country great, not to depend on developed countries. But where do you think we missed it?I believe that where we truly miss it is where our capacity of transforming the resources here is limited. To the point that if you have raw material, that you sell abroad, and which comes back to you at a price which is 10 times what you have sold it, it is a kind of loss of economic opportunity that is there, which you need to address. That’s one thing. If the financial architecture is defined in a way that those who rate people, and we all know that the interest rate you pay for the loan you take, or for the debt you have, is mostly depending on the level of risk you are rated for. If that remains high, to the point that you borrow at an interest rate which is so high that the reimbursement of that debt service takes almost all the revenue you generate, that leaves you a little margin. I think also the fact that we need to look at the demographics of Nigeria as a dividend, as an asset, but not as a burden. But to have it as a dividend and as an asset, you need to invest in human capital. If people are healthier, if people have better nutrition, if people have better education, if the environment has improved security, those are the elements that will trigger the development process. You know, in today’s world, everyone knows that what drives progress, what drives growth, is mostly, knowledge and skills. There are countries today that are developed and that do not have any resources underground, but just have made the choice to invest in human capital. And I think if we also help Nigeria to increase its investment on human capital, mainly nutrition, health, education, sanitation, you will create a condition where this big demographic becomes a dividend. And let’s not forget that 20 to 25 years down the line, Nigeria’s current population will double. And by then, Nigeria not only will be the third biggest demographic in the world, but among the big demographic in the world, it will have the youngest population. And that young population, to me, is an asset. But to get it and to transform it into a dividend or an asset, it’s right now that we need to do the investment. And that’s why we are saying that if there is any country where the SDG or where the acceleration of the SDG resonates so well with what the need of the country is, it’s Nigeria. Because if you transform Nigeria today in all the areas targeted by the SDG, two, three decades down the line, Nigeria will emerge as a big power. Not power by the name, but power by the reality, which we have seen already. I mentioned the private sector, the innovation sector, art, culture and creative economy are also other sectors where really, you can see Nigeria blossoming. But I feel that we can expand that growth and that development if we further invest in the human capital. And I think the whole stake around the acceleration of the SDG, for me, is around that human capital development.So, invariably, investment in human capital will also help to actualise the one trillion economy that the President is talking about?Indeed. Because, as I say, if you look at history, there was a time when agriculture was the engine of development. There was a time when industry was the engine of development. But now services, knowledge and skill are the engine of development. You take a country like Singapore, even a country like the US, the most developed countries, what is contributing more to their GDP? And if you develop the human capital, you have an expanded private sector that generates wealth, generates employment. You have young people that are upskilled, reskilled, to the point that they can contribute to the development of their community, of their state, of their country. You have the right policy that makes Nigeria shift toward renewable energy. You have the right policy that makes Nigeria shift toward mitigating the degradation of the environment or the impact of climate change. You create an improved environment in terms of security, which allows people to have access to livelihood, to have access to economic opportunity, to have access to services. You create all the ingredients that it takes for Nigeria. Because a $1 trillion economy is just to double the GDP from where it is today. Today we are talking about between $400 and $450 billion. You add $1 billion, if you do maybe 2-3% growth, and then you add $50 billion, you are halfway. It will take you may be less than 5 years or less than 10 years, let’s say, for the economy to reach $1 trillion. But that will require some engine that will require some institutional setting that I believe the government is working on. But I think if we succeed in this direction, it will easily reach that level or that target of a $1 trillion economy. But I just don’t want people to think that that level will be reached only if you continue to export minerals and you don’t transform them here. If you only count on investment coming from the government, private sector, national and international, local and national have a role to play in it. And I think also when you have the citizens that have good health, good nutrition, good ability to learn, young people that have the right skill and the skill of today, not the skill of the 20th century or 19th century, but the skill of the 21st century; Nigeria is prepared to play that role.Looking at this summit, as it pertains to Nigeria, would you say that the level of awareness of the private sector is low as to their role in financing development in Nigeria?I’m not sure.So what is the gap?I feel the private sector in Nigeria is extremely vibrant. They understand their role and they are playing it. As I say, I was just this morning, all the morning I was sitting in the African Import and Export Bank Annual Meeting, but I think across the continent people are thinking that right now we have the solution to get the private sector further engaged in development. What we do not have fully is all the policy framework that we need to de-risk the sector and to have the guarantee for the private sector also to invest into development. Because let’s not forget also the private sector, we cannot change them. They cannot move from their role of earning resources to replace investing for nothing in development. That’s why we in the UN here, we are promoting in the engagement with the private sector what we call the win-win and share-value approach, which is that sometimes private sectors get higher return and get higher impact in terms of growing their business by investing in development. And the example I’m always giving is that the more people are financially literate, the more people are able to have mastery on a digital platform, maybe the better it is for the digital economy, the better it is for the banking sector. Then when you invest on education or when you invest on digitisation, the education platform, you are not doing it only for the government or for the people, you are also helping the private sector. And I think the private sector in Nigeria has a good understanding. We had earlier this week a press conference with One Sterling Foundation, which is a foundation set up by One Sterling Bank, and we have what we call Annual Social Impact Summit, which brings together hundreds of private sector, mostly from Nigeria, and showing and getting together and seeing how and what are the kind of prerequisites for the private sector to have greater engagement, more impactful engagement, into the development sector. Last year in November, we organised with UNHCR and IOM a regional conference on private sector and durable solutions for displacement, because we know also, because of the whole shock we have in the country, sometimes linked to climate crisis, sometimes linked to security, sometimes linked to violence that are prevailing here and there, the country has the largest number of displaced people in sub-Saharan Africa.And we believe that those people are not in this displacement by choice, the circumstances that have driven them to do it. But now, to address their problem, for a long time, we thought that, you know, you give humanitarian assistance, you save lives, you reduce their vulnerability. But then, we think that, no, for their own dignity, what you need to do is to invest for them to access livelihood, to access economic opportunity, and that’s what will make them regain their dignity, come back on their feet, and be able to assume their own well-being. And I felt last year we have mobilised a big number of private sectors with international financial cooperation, with African financial cooperation. There are a number of agencies that are working together. We are also working with a development bank, but we are also working with commercial and private banks. And all of these are really helping to develop products or to develop capital that can help small businesses to thrive. And here in Nigeria, you have Dangote, which has a foundation that invests in health, nutrition, and polio eradication. The Tony Elumelu Foundation has been grooming young people toward entrepreneurship and helping them to learn lessons or to learn from the failure that they had before to avoid and to tell them how a business can grow and thrive. I think that the private sector in Nigeria is the opposite, I feel, extremely aware of their responsibility in developing the country. Now what we need is to look at the environment in which they operate and see where the obstacles are. Is the obstacle linked to the fact that people or young people do not have the skill they require for their business? The farmers, do they have the skill they require? The policy that we have, does it provide the kind of right environment for business to grow? The issues of energy need to be solved because you can’t have industrialisation or development if the power or the energy issue is not linked. And that’s why energy also is one of the six transitions for the acceleration of the SDG. And as you know, Nigeria still has 85 million people who are not connected to power. To renewable energy, to connection to mini-grid, a kind of possibility to expand like nowhere else in the world. And I think those numbers also create a potential of growth that you don’t see anywhere else in the world. And that’s why I think for the business sector, being in Nigeria is something important.Finally sir, would you say the current administration of President Tinubu is going the right way to re-engineer the economy, to attract private sector participation in development financing?I believe so. And I think the current reform that is ongoing; everyone can interpret in a different way the removal of the subsidy. If you talk to all the economists, they tell you that it makes the economy much healthier. And even what is called the current depreciation of the Naira is not depreciation. Probably before the Naira was kind of over-evaluated, the increase of the hard currency reserve and a better control of it is also something that is important. I think Nigeria has now committed very strongly to the Africa free trade market initiative. There are a number of initiatives that are in the country which to me are going in the right direction. But as I always say, when you do an economic reform, it also needs to have a human face. Because we all know that one of the unintended consequences of the reform in the early months and the first year was a kind of spike in the inflation rate, mainly the inflation of food prices. And we have been advocating with the Minister of Finance, with the World Bank, with all the development partners for a kind of programme and distribution of cash handouts to the poorest and the most vulnerable people are undertaken.I think now we have reached 6 million households which is like 30 million people. We still have a long way to go. But in this UN stance it’s always we praise the reform. Mainly it’s timeliness, its boldness, its courage. And everyone says that even in this current world where you have trade war or tariff issues, if this reform was not taken two years ago probably Nigeria wouldn’t be in a position that allows it to face these current challenges. But we are as we praise that boldness of the long overdue reform; we also want to appeal for a kind of human face. That is why we are saying that it is good to reform but it is also good to carry along everyone. Why are we insisting on education, health for social safety nets, on nutrition because these are the things that make people feel that they are part and parcel of the reform and these are the things that can help address and solve the inequality and hardship for the most vulnerable people. I think this is what I can say about the reforms; it’s on the right path, it’s timely, it’s bold and all the international community are in support and everyone is watching Nigeria and saying it is going in the right direction. But let’s address also, the needs of the most vulnerable, mainly the consequences that were impacted on the most vulnerable. One thing that I have seen which is important is inflation and inflation on food prices.The way you can address it immediately, is to give cash handouts to people to have access to food commodities.This interview was first published in the The Nation newspapers of 29 June 2025.
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29 April 2025
EU, UN dialogue to strengthen partnership in support of Nigeria
Building on the global partnership approach between the United Nations and the European Union, the UN and the EU in Nigeria have convened a strategic partnership meeting to strengthen collaboration and improve efficiency and coordination in delivering on shared priorities in support of Nigeria. Convened by the Head of the European Union Delegation to Nigeria and to the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Ambassador Gautier Mignot, and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, the meeting was attended by Ambassadors of the EU Member States in Nigeria and Heads of UN Agencies in the country.“In a fast-evolving world, where multilateralism is challenged, the EU-UN partnership is more relevant than ever. For Nigeria and many other countries in the world, this partnership is a strong and reliable source of financial and technical support, respectful of national sovereignty and oriented towards the achievement of the sustainable development goals.” Ambassador Mignot said. He assured that “Together with its Member States, as “Team Europe”, and in particular through the Global Gateway strategy, the EU Delegation in Nigeria will continue to work hand in hand with UN agencies to help create socio-economic opportunities, especially for the most vulnerable.”The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, noted that advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) required robust partnerships and strong institutions. “In this context, the strategic UN-EU partnership—both globally and in-country—has become even more vital for delivering on our shared priorities. As both institutions undergo transformations—the EU through its Global Gateway Strategy and Team Europe initiative, and the UN Development System through enhanced efficiency, impact, and coherence—this meeting provides a timely opportunity to deepen our collaboration.” He said.Fall observed, “In this challenging funding and political environment, we believe there is an opportunity—a necessary wake-up call for multilateralism and international solidarity.”The Resident Coordinator, therefore, assured that the “UN is committed to working alongside the Nigerian government and the EU to manage this transition and deliver on the promise of the UN reform agenda.”
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07 March 2025
Climate action, gateway to new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity – Stiell
UN Climate Change Executive Secretary Simon Stiell today declared that a strong new national climate plan would "supercharge the Nigerian economy'', building on the country's climate leadership and economic progress.The comments from the UN's climate chief capped a four-day visit to Nigeria, during which he met with senior government officials, civil society, and business leaders to discuss how ambitious climate action can drive forward the country’s economic growth and living standards, protect the environment, and power innovation.Speaking at a symposium convened by Nigeria’s National Council on Climate Change Secretariat (NCCCS) at the Lekki Conservation Centre in Lagos, Mr. Stiell said bold climate action is vital to avert the disastrous human and economic impacts of global heating, but also to seize vast human and economic benefits for Nigeria and its people."A strong new national climate plan can be the gateway to a new Nigerian era of growth and prosperity, fueled by clean and affordable energy, available to all,” Mr. Steill said."Clean energy and sustainable agriculture will create jobs, attract foreign investment, and strengthen Nigeria’s global and regional competitiveness. "With 90% of Nigerians employed in micro, small, and medium enterprises, the ripple effects of green growth will be felt in every local community and economy.” Mr. Stiell said.Mr. Stiell highlighted that USD$2 trillion was invested in clean energy and infrastructure in 2024 alone. "It’s abundantly clear now that the countries who will seize the biggest benefits of the USD 2 trillion global boom in clean energy are those that invest in their people and their strengths,” Mr. Stiell said.He emphasized that Nigeria has huge opportunities to benefit, through a national climate plan that promotes investment in clean energy, critical minerals, and domestic manufacturing. "Clean energy can power up your population – providing clean access for countless millions. Investing in green buildings, clean infrastructure, and domestic manufacturing can drive economic growth. Clean cooking can protect the health of families," Mr. Stiell said.But said that more international finance must flow to Nigeria from public and private sources. Mr. Stiell also highlighted Nigeria’s vast mangrove forests—the largest in Africa and the third largest globally—as a powerful natural defense against climate impacts. Acting as a carbon sink and a shield against coastal erosion, destructive storms, and rising seas, mangroves are vital for protecting both people and biodiversity. Expanding and restoring these ecosystems can strengthen community resilience and drive sustainable economic growth. With climate change already costing Nigeria up to 5% of its GDP, he emphasized that investing in nature-based solutions like mangrove restoration is not just an environmental necessity but an economic opportunity that can pay for itself many times over. On Wednesday in Abuja, Mr. Stiell met with parliamentarians and senior government officials to discuss the opportunities Nigeria has as Africa's largest economy and how a strong new climate plan will drive forward progress right across the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). He paid tribute to the important climate efforts of Nigeria and its people thus far, in the world's existential climate fight.He also met with civil society representatives focused on climate change, environment, women’s empowerment, and the role of young people, doing essential work on the ground to translate climate commitments into action. In every meeting he heard how Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to action on climate change.
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Story
14 January 2025
DSG Amina Mohammed concludes official visit to Nigeria, advocates for regional stability, climate action, others
The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Ms. Amina J. Mohammed has concluded a 2-day official visit to Nigeria. While in Nigeria, she had a series of high-level meetings, including with H.E. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu; Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun; Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Prof Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda; senior government officials; President of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Dr. Omar Alieu Touray; as well as the UN Country Team under the leadership of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Malick Fall. The Deputy Secretary-General, accompanied by the Secretary-General’s Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Leonardo Simão, on 9 – 10 January 2025, engaged and mobilized support for regional integration, stability and development; strengthening humanitarian-development-peace nexus; Pact for the future; partnership for urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts; ensuring food security; durable solutions to internal displacement; and leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance Nigeria’s trade and economic relations across the region. “Member States, including Nigeria, and with the support of the UN and other stakeholders, need to deliver more ambitious Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) to ensure a safer and more livable future for both the planet and people everywhere.” She said.On the Pact for the future as an outcome of the Summit of the future held in September 2024 in New York, Mohammed emphasized that the Pact remained a sure pathway to getting the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) back on track. “The Pact is not a separate agenda from the SDGs. It is one and the same. That is why the first chapter is on SDGs and financing for development. It is about international peace and security; science, technology and innovation and digital cooperation; youth and future generations; and transforming global governance.” She explained. The Deputy Secretary General reassured that the United Nations in Nigeria would strengthen its partnership with the government through diligent implementation of the UN and Nigeria Cooperation Framework (2023-2027), and would continue to support the development aspirations of the people of Nigeria, leaving no one behind.
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Story
12 December 2024
UN Security Council Informal Group visits Nigeria, addresses Climate, Peace, and Security Challenges in Lake Chad basin
Members of the Informal Expert Group on Climate, Peace, and Security (IEG) of the United Nations Security Council embarked on a five-day informal mission to Nigeria, in December 2024, focusing on the complex challenges of the Lake Chad Basin region. This mission, the first field visit for the group, aimed to assess the localized impacts of climate change on peace and security, providing a direct look at how these issues affect communities, particularly in the North-East of Nigeria. The purpose of the mission was for the members to learn about the reality and localized impact of climate, peace and security related to the specific context of the Lake Chad Basin region, and to familiarize the Security Council membership with the practical implications on the ground on language related to climate change and its impacts on peace and security used in mandates and presidential statements, and to directly see and learn about the needs and realities faced by affected communities, including women, children and youth. The Mission also sought to review how recommendations from UNSC resolutions, such as Resolution 2349 (2017), have been implemented in the Lake Chad Basin region, particularly regarding climate change, humanitarian aid, and security stabilization.The timing of the mission is particularly significant, as the UN Security Council has been increasingly focused on addressing the intersection of climate change and security in the Lake Chad Basin region. In 2017, the UNSC adopted Resolution 2349, which recognized the link between climate change, violent extremism, and the humanitarian crisis in the region. More recently, in 2024, the UNSC issued a Presidential Statement on West Africa and the Sahel, acknowledging the role of climate change in exacerbating conflict and emphasizing the need for long-term stabilization strategies. The mission took place amid growing concerns about the continued impact of climate change on the region’s security and development. The region's vulnerability to extreme weather events, such as floods, droughts, and desertification, is compounded by political instability and violent extremism, making it one of the most fragile areas in the world.This year, the group was co-chaired by Mozambique and Switzerland who invited other Council Members to join the co-chairs for a field visit. Representatives of Algeria, France, Malta, Mozambique, Sierra Leone, Slovenia, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, and the United States joined the visit. While the group acknowledged the immense challenges faced by the region, the mission also emphasized the importance of focusing on solutions. This approach called for partnerships across sectors, governments, and generations to foster long-term stability and resilience.The delegation held crucial meetings with various stakeholders, including government representatives, international organizations, and local leaders. During their meeting with the UN Resident Coordinator, Mr. Mohammed Malick Fall, the UN Country Team including the World Bank, the representatives learnt about initiatives and programmes in the North-East of Nigeria and beyond undertaken by the different UN entities to address the root causes and challenges related to climate change, security, peacebuilding, humanitarian emergency, and how durable solutions and longer-term development can be enhanced. The IEG also met with Nigeria's federal and state government officials, including those from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the National Council of Climate Change (NCCC), the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC), Office of the National Security Advisor, and the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR). Discussions focused on the intersection of climate change, conflict, and peacebuilding, as well as the role of early warning systems and data-sharing mechanisms at regional, national, and local levels.The Executive Secretary of the Lake Chad Basin Commission (LCBC), Ambassador Mamman Nuhu, briefed the delegation on the challenges of climate-induced displacement, particularly among farmers and herders, and the impact of climate change on local security dynamics. The LCBC's dual mandate in both security and development, along with its collaboration with the Multi-National Joint Task Force (MNJTF), was highlighted as a key mechanism for addressing these challenges.Representatives also met with local civil society organizations working on climate resilience and peacebuilding projects. These engagements underscored the importance of locally led solutions, particularly in fostering climate-resilient livelihoods and raising awareness on the impacts of climate change. The role of women and youth in mediation, peace education, and local conflict resolution was also a focal point.The group was briefed by ECOWAS on their Regional Strategy on Climate Change and the revisions to the Transhumance Protocol. Discussions also included how climate change impacts, such as drought, desertification, and flooding, affect migration patterns and resource conflicts between farmers and herders. A two-day field visit to Maiduguri, Borno State, provided the delegation with a firsthand look at the challenges faced by communities in the heart of the Lake Chad Basin region. During this visit, the delegation met with Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Umaru Zulum, and his cabinet to discuss the ongoing efforts to stabilize and rebuild the state after years of conflict. Key topics included the need for durable solutions to internally displaced persons and the role of regional cooperation in promoting social cohesion and resilience. The upcoming Lake Chad Basin Governors Forum 2025 will be a key moment to deepen further engagement, including on implementation of the recently revised Regional Strategy for the Stabilisation, Recovery and Resilience of the Boko Haram affected areas of the Lake Chad Basin region. The importance of a regional approach to strengthen the social cohesion of the Lake Chad basin countries was also, including the role of the regional stabilization basket fund as well as the basket fund related to territorial action plans. Questions arose related to the access of funding of the Green Climate Fund. The delegation also visited IDP camps in Maiduguri (Muna Garage and Bulumkutuu Interim Care Centre-BICC) and in Jere LGA (El Miskin IDP Camp), where they observed the dire humanitarian conditions and the ongoing challenges posed by climate change, including food insecurity, water scarcity, and infrastructure damage. The importance of education and vocational training for youth to prevent recruitment by armed groups was also emphasized.The IEG's mission to Nigeria highlighted the urgency of addressing climate change as a driver of conflict and insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin region. However, it also showcased the potential for regional cooperation, innovative solutions, and community-led initiatives to build resilience and promote peace. The mission underscored the importance of continued engagement with local actors, international partners, and governments to tackle the intertwined challenges of climate change, conflict, and development.As the region continues to face significant environmental, political, and security challenges, the need for integrated, long-term strategies that combine climate adaptation, conflict prevention, and development will be critical to ensuring a sustainable and peaceful future for the Lake Chad Basin.Top of FormThe Mission was accompanied by the Climate Peace and Security Advisor of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), Mr. Galine Yanon, the Climate, Peace and Security Advisor of the United Nations Office for Central Africa (UNOCA), Mr. Mabaye, the Peace and Development Advisor for Nigeria, Ms. Kimairis Toogood, and Climate Peace and Security Officer at the Department of Political and Peacebuilding Affairs, Western Africa Division (DPPA-WAD), Ms. Wifag Hadra. BackgroundThe Lake Chad Basin faces a complex crisis fueled by environmental, political, security, and socio-economic challenges that undermine stability and development. In the sub-region, climate-related challenges intertwine with a complex security situation marked by other forms of localized conflicts, political crises, violent extremism, and terrorism, and clashes over resource control. The region is facing a multidimensional crisis, with two of its four member countries, Chad and Niger, ranked among the top seven most vulnerable countries to climate change. As a result, the region is very susceptible to recurrent droughts, flood, land degradation, and erratic rainfall patterns, with severe consequences for agriculture and water resources, contributing to food and water insecurity, migration and displacement. While climate change is not the sole cause of conflict in the Lake Chad Basin region, it acts as a significant "risk multiplier," exacerbating existing tensions amongst communities, that contribute to instability and conflict. UNSC Resolution 2349 (2017) (S/RES/2349) adopted unanimously by all Council members addressed for the first time holistically issues related to violent extremism and the security crisis together with the humanitarian emergency, development deficits and recognized the adverse effects of climate change and ecological changes among other factors on the stability of the region, including through water scarcity, drought, desertification, land degradation and food insecurity and emphasized the need for adequate risk assessments and risk management strategies. On 24 May 2024, under the co-penholdership of Sierra Leone and Switzerland, the UN Security Council adopted by consensus a Presidential Statement on West Africa and the Sahel in support of the United Nations Office for West Africa and the Sahel (UNOWAS), which also specifically refers to the effects of climate change (S/PRST/2024/3) . Similarly, on 1 November 2024, under the co-penholdership of Mozambique and the United Kingdom, the UN Security Council adopted by consensus a Presidential Statement on the Central African region in support of the United Nations Office for the Central African region (UNOCA) in document (S/PRST/2024/7).
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Press Release
28 May 2024
We will stand behind you - UN assures, as States Action Plans for Durable Solutions in Northeast are launched.
Abuja, 28 May 2024. In furtherance of their commitment to ending internal displacement in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States, the Government of Nigeria and the United Nations have launched the States Action Plans on Durable Solutions to Internal Displacement in Nigeria.“We will stand behind you. Let me reiterate our commitment on behalf of the United Nations: We will keep supporting on the ground; We will help rally donors; We will chase missing partners; We will celebrate your successes,” said Robert Piper, United Nations Assistant Secretary General, and Special Adviser on Solutions to Internal Displacement, at the launch held at the Presidential Villa Abuja, Nigeria.The Action Plans, according to him, are anchored in international standards and the Kampala Convention; driven by real political leadership; and are geared to mobilize development investments.“The plans you launch today provide a model of how governments can take responsibility for ending displacement. The plans recognise that displaced people can choose between going back home, properly integrating where they are right now or relocating elsewhere in the country.” Piper explained. The Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency Senator Kashim Shettima, emphasised that “We must invest in sustainable development, education, and economic opportunities to build resilient communities. By doing so, we not only address the immediate needs of the displaced but also create a foundation for a more stable and prosperous future.”He noted that the launch of the state Action Plans was meant to craft solutions that would outlive the present generation, and offer future generations a place of hope, a home for all, and a land of opportunity where dreams could be pursued without worry.Shettima noted, “As we launch these State Action Plans, let us commit to collaborative efforts that transcend borders and political divides. Let us harness the strength of our partnerships, both local and international, to bring about lasting change. The task ahead is immense, but with determination, unity, and a clear vision, we can make a profound difference.” Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed commended the governments of Borno, Adamawa, and Yobe for their actions to scale up solution pathways in their state action plans, noting that achieving durable solutions is a priority for both Nigeria and for the United Nations secretary general. “Finding durable solutions to internal displacement is central to achieving the sustainable development goals in Nigeria and beyond, and they must become an integral part of development plans in areas affected by forced displacement.” Said the Deputy Secretary-General.She emphasized that durable solutions required long term investments in infrastructure, education, health care, as well as in security and the enablers social contract with the people. Mohammed added that “Our joint efforts must offer the promise of inclusive governance, human dignity, and a world where we leave no one behind.”The British High Commissioner to Nigeria, Ambassador Richard Montgomery, who spoke on behalf of the informal North-East Ambassador Group, emphasised that the group shared a collective interest in government’s efforts to bring peace to the North-East.“We stand in support of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration. As regards the durable solutions to internal displacement in the North-east, Montgomery noted, “No one country has the answer. We must join hands to ensure sustainable solutions to internally displaced persons (IDPs) issues in Nigeria.”At the launch were the Governor of Borno State, H.E. Prof Babagana Zulum; Governor of Yobe State, H.E. Mai Mala Buni; Governor of Benue State, H.E. Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia; and Hon. Commissioner for Reconstruction Rehabilitation Reintegration & Human Service, Bello Hamman Diram, representing Adamawa State Governor, H.E. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. ### Note to EditorsThe publication of the United Nations Secretary General High Level Panel’s Report on Internal Displacement, and the accompanying Action Agenda on Internal Displacement created a pivotal moment in how durable solutions in situations of internal displacement are approached. Building on the Guiding Principles on Internal Displacement, the renewed attention to durable solutions puts a significant emphasis towards government-led and -owned processes.In line with this recommendation, and following the visit of UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres to Borno in May 2022, the authorities in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe initiated a process to develop their own action plans to address internal displacement as part of overall and long term development of their state.Progress towards durable solutions requires an approach that steps away from a needs-based way of working towards an area-based approach. The activities, processes and budget elaborated on in the State Action Plans, ensure that attention is given to all communities affected by displacement – including internally displaced persons, returnees as well as members of the host communities. Addressing forced displacement in this way bears the promise for the State Action Plans to contribute to the overall development of the state and to leave no one behind.Through their State Action Plans, the authorities acknowledge the need to ensure that methodologies, processes, and activities which form part of the vision to achieve durable solutions need to be evaluated in a timely manner with an aim to amend and strengthen their approach to achieving solutions. As an integral part of the overall governance systemfor durable solutions, the people-centered approach described in the monitoring andevaluation chapters will significantly contribute to ensure displacement affected communities participate in the overall development of the state.All plans recognize the need to maintain humanitarian assistance where needed, work around preventing future displacement and progressing solutions where possible. Driving these plans forward and recognizing the longer-term systematic sustainability that is needed, ambitious budgets have been developed. While a significant amount of these budgets is reserved for access to housing –including elements related to secure tenure –they cater to a wider set of interventions such as economic development and access to services.For more information and media enquiries contact:Oluseyi Soremekun – National Information Officer, UN Information Centre (UNIC) | +234 803 303 0002 | soremekun@un.org
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Press Release
22 June 2023
UN honours Princess Adejoke Adefulire for leadership in promoting SDGs
Abuja: 22 June 2023. In recognition of her commitment and visionary leadership in promoting the Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development in Nigeria, the United Nations in Nigeria has honoured the former Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (OSSAP-SDGs), H.E. Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire with ‘SDGs Champion’ award.
At the award ceremony held at the UN House Abuja, on 20 June 2023, Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, commended the United Nations in Nigeria for rewarding performance and dedication.
“I thank the UN and the orgnisers of this award for finding it imperative to reward performance and dedication. This will go a long way in instilling sense of duty and encourage more people in their services to the nation, to give their best“, said the First Lady, represented by the National Women Leader for the All Progressives Congress (APC), Dr Betta Edu.
Highlighting the contribution of the awardee to the implementation of SDGs at the sub-national level, UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale noted, “Your firm belief that the Sustainable Development Goals are for everyone everywhere, is a constant reminder that Agenda 2030 is neither for just one part of the country, nor for just one group of people.”
He underlined that the UN in Nigeria is ready to engage with the new government on how to accelerate achievement of the SDGs and the 2030 agenda.
Th First Lady assured the United Nations in Nigeria that “We will remain partners in building a virile and prosperous Nigeria in our quest to renewing hope especially now that we are rebuilding.”
On the awardee, Senator Tinubu emphasized that Princess Adefulire’s inclusive and dedicated approach to national assignment endeared her to the stakeholders and eventually brought out the best in her.
In her acceptance speech, Princess Adefulire expressed her appreciation of the United Nations Country Team for the commitment and tremendous support towards the implementation of the SDGs in Nigeria.
“Together, we have made significant progress in our collective desire to achieve the SDGs and leave no Nigeria behind.” She said, and disclosed that as of December 2022, her office had completed the long and meticulous process of institutionalizing the SDGs in Nigeria; while all the institutional frameworks required to support the effective implementation of the SDGs in Nigeria were also in place.
“It is with a great sense of gratitude and honour that I accept this humbling and prestigious United Nations SDGs Champion Award. I accept it on behalf of my formidable team at OSSAP-SDGs and thousands of unsung heroes in Nigeria.” Princess Adejoke added.
The award ceremony was attended by members of the UN Country Team, and representatives of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF); the Head of Service; Deputy Governor of Ogun State and the First Lady of Ogun State, H.E. Mrs Bamidele Abiodun.
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Press Release
19 March 2023
UN condemns killing of children and women in Zangon Kataf, Kaduna State
Abuja, 18 March 2023 - The United Nations is deeply disturbed by the recent spate of violence in some parts of the country. Earlier this week, several innocent women and children were killed in Zangon Kataf, Local Government Area of Kaduna State. What is alarming is the barbaric and senseless killings of young children including a young boy who was abducted and murdered in the most brutal manner in the LGA. This spate of violence comes soon after another series of violent incidents where numerous of people including children were killed in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue state.
The UN strongly condemns these attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of dozens of people, including children, some of whom were toddlers, women, and men. We are also deeply concerned that people continued to be killed and injured in subsequent attacks.
We urge groups involved in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and refrain from attacking innocent civilians, especially women and children who have nothing to do with the conflict. We also call for a lasting solution to be found that will provide a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The UN Resident Coordinator for Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, said, "these atrocities must not continue unchecked. The UN stands with the government and people of Nigeria in their efforts to bring an end to this senseless violence, bring to justice perpetrators and ensure that all citizens are protected and able to live in peace and security."
“We call on all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to this violence and to respect the sanctity of human life. The UN remains committed to supporting the government and people of Nigeria in their quest for a peaceful and prosperous nation”, he added.
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Press Release
19 March 2023
UN condemns killing of children and women in Zangon Kataf, Kaduna State
Abuja, 18 March 2023 - The United Nations is deeply disturbed by the recent spate of violence in some parts of the country. Earlier this week, several innocent women and children were killed in Zangon Kataf, Local Government Area of Kaduna State. What is alarming is the barbaric and senseless killings of young children including a young boy who was abducted and murdered in the most brutal manner in the LGA. This spate of violence comes soon after another series of violent incidents where numerous of people including children were killed in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue state.
The UN strongly condemns these attacks, which have resulted in the deaths of dozens of people, including children, some of whom were toddlers, women, and men. We are also deeply concerned that people continued to be killed and injured in subsequent attacks.
We urge groups involved in the conflict to immediately cease hostilities and refrain from attacking innocent civilians, especially women and children who have nothing to do with the conflict. We also call for a lasting solution to be found that will provide a sustainable and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
The UN Resident Coordinator for Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, said, "these atrocities must not continue unchecked. The UN stands with the government and people of Nigeria in their efforts to bring an end to this senseless violence, bring to justice perpetrators and ensure that all citizens are protected and able to live in peace and security."
“We call on all parties to work towards a peaceful resolution to this violence and to respect the sanctity of human life. The UN remains committed to supporting the government and people of Nigeria in their quest for a peaceful and prosperous nation”, he added.
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Press Release
01 September 2021
Applications open next week for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme, the graduate employment initiative by the Federal Government and UNDP
Applications will open September 6th for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme (NJFP), H.E, President Muhammadu Buhari announced today at the Aso Rock Villa. The NJFP is an initiative led by the Federal Government of Nigeria, with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the European Union (EU), to match 20,000 highly skilled graduates annually with yearlong job placements in public and private sectors across multiple industries. The programme is open to graduates and organisations that fit the requirements found here.
In attendance at the official launch was the Vice President of Nigeria, His Excellency, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, SAN, and the Honourable Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, His Excellency, Mr. Otunba Richard Adeniyi Adebayo CON.
Other development partners who attended the event included the Chargé d'Affaires a.i Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, His Excellency, Alexandre Borges Gomes, United Nations Resident Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mr. Edward Kallon and the UNDP Resident Representative, Mr. Mohamad Yahya.
According to one 2019 estimate, about 25 million graduates remain unemployed across the country. The NJFP aims to create a channel between graduates and industry, to help address this employment gap by identifying the emerging skills that companies need most, while guiding graduates to be more prepared for a constantly evolving work environment.
In his remarks, H.E President Muhammadu Buhari said, “An important part of our policies and strategies is to focus on employment and creating opportunities for young Nigerians. The Jubilee Fellows Programme will create new opportunities for 20,000 recent graduates annually and I encourage all eligible Nigerians to apply. I also urge private and public sector organizations across the country to join us by providing work placement opportunities, mentors, and funding to support the program. I thank the United Nations Development Programme and the European Union for their support on this vital initiative”.
The NJFP will champion homegrown Nigerian talent and opportunities by connecting organizations directly to graduates. The pandemic has changed our lives in many ways and made it even more difficult for young graduates entering the job market as well as for organizations looking for new talent. Through the NJFP, both graduates and organizations will get a boost in a changing post-COVID job landscape.
In his remarks, the Chargé d'Affaires a.i at the Delegation of the European Union to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Alexandre Borges Gomes said: “The EU sees itself as being at the forefront of promoting youth focused, and youth led, development. We see the young as change-makers, essential to the implementation of the Development Agenda and stand ready to assist Nigeria in keeping the young as an asset. This is why we are committing to support the Nigeria Jubilee Fellows Programme.”
This fellowship is designed to help fresh NYSC graduates with zero work experience, who often find it challenging to break into the professional world. The long-term goal would be for the Fellows to feel that they are playing a meaningful part in growing the private and public sector landscape, helping to shape the future of Nigeria.
“Through the Jubilee Fellows Programme, young Nigerians will access skills that will help them to navigate in an evolving job market. By creating a channel between graduates and companies, the programme will help identify the emerging skills that companies need most, while guiding graduates to be more prepared to make impact, influence decisions and re-imagine future-proof skills” said UNDP Resident Representative Mohamed Yahya. “We look forward to seeing the inspiring young talent of this country leverage this programme to continue to make positive change and impact in their communities”.
Applications for the Nigeria Jubilee Fellowship Programme will open on the NJFP website on September 6, 2021. For more information on NJFP, visit the website here. You can also watch the recording of the launch event on the Aso Rock Youtube page.
[1] Babalobi, B. Nigeria - Why Graduates Are Unemployed and Unemployable. AllAfrica. Retrieved 30 Aug 2021.
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