The United Nations (UN) has stated the Important role of Nigeria’s progress in driving Africa’s development towards advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
This collaboration between the UN and President Bola Tinubu’s administration aims to ensure the success of Nigeria’s development initiatives, recognizing that the country’s prosperity directly impacts the entire continent.
During a courtesy visit to Vice President Kashim Shettima at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Mr. Mohammed Fall, the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, emphasized the interconnectedness of Nigeria’s success with Africa’s overall development.
He highlighted that if Nigeria fails to progress, it diminishes the prospects for other African nations. Conversely, Nigeria’s advancements serve as a beacon for the continent, setting the stage for collective progress towards the SDGs.
Mr. Fall proposed a comprehensive humanitarian response plan for Nigeria, emphasizing the need to address immediate needs while laying the groundwork for sustainable long-term development.
He commended the measures taken by the Tinubu administration to reposition the economy and pledged the UN system’s support for these reforms.
Acknowledging the challenges faced by Nigeria, Vice President Shettima affirmed the government’s commitment to working closely with the UN to address them collaboratively. He stated the tough but necessary decisions made by the Tinubu administration, such as removing fuel subsidies and unifying exchange rates, to steer the country away from economic stagnation.
Despite the progress made, Mr. Fall noted that humanitarian needs persist in Nigeria, particularly in the northern regions. However, he credited President Tinubu’s leadership for improvements in the humanitarian situation while emphasizing the ongoing necessity to save lives and alleviate vulnerability.