Linus Aleke in Abuja
The United Nations (UN) has reiterated its commitment to continue to support Nigeria’s aspirations for peace, prosperity and sustainable development.
United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohammed Mallick Fall reaffirmed this commitment while delivering his remarks at a youth event in Abuja, on Thursday.
A statement by Director, United Nations Information Center, Abuja, Ronald Kayanja, said the youth event was part of activities lined up to mark the 79th anniversary of the United Nations.
Fall highlighted Nigeria’s pivotal role in advancing multilateralism and international cooperation, describing her as a global “rising star”.
He averred that 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.
According to him, “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,” he said.
He noted that as Nigeria aspires to achieve its Agenda 2030 goals and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the UN remains a steadfast partner, adding that 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.
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, 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, WHO Rep, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo expressed gratitude to the govt and partners for their continued support to the UN at a time when its founding purposes are challenged globally.
