The Federal Government has called for a deepened strategic partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to address critical developmental gaps, specifically focusing on poverty alleviation and the enhancement of female participation in politics and governance.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, made this appeal on Thursday at the Presidential Villa in Abuja while receiving the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Attafuah, on a courtesy visit.
Gbajabiamila emphasized that while the UNDP has a long-standing history of impactful intervention in Nigeria, the current administration is keen on leveraging the agency’s global expertise to drive more inclusive social reforms.
He particularly noted that Nigeria seeks to replicate the success stories of other African nations regarding higher female representation in leadership.
The Chief of Staff remarked that the UNDP’s vast experience across diverse regions could help Nigeria achieve a more balanced gender participation in governance without infringing upon the country’s unique cultural and religious sensibilities.
Beyond political inclusion, the Federal Government identified poverty reduction, education, agriculture, and the mining sector as vital areas where the agency’s support remains indispensable.
Gbajabiamila highlighted that these sectors are fundamental to President Bola Tinubu’s reform agenda, which aims to create a more resilient and industrialized economy.
He specifically linked the “Made-in-Nigeria” policy to these efforts, describing it as a vehicle for industrialization that would stimulate employment and economic growth across various value chains.
Responding to the government’s request, Ms. Elsie Attafuah commended President Tinubu’s transformative and inspirational leadership, affirming the UNDP’s readiness to support Nigeria’s aspirations as the giant of Africa.
She explained that the agency is currently transitioning from a project-based approach to a long-term thematic framework centered on government-led financing.
This shift, she noted, is designed to encourage national governments to take full ownership of their development initiatives through prudent resource management.
Ms. Attafuah further revealed that the UNDP is already pioneering initiatives like the University Graduate Hub, a platform where young innovators can showcase product prototypes to attract financiers.
She expressed confidence that the “Made-in-Nigeria” policy would serve as a developmental catalyst, driving trade, innovation, and global competitiveness.
The meeting concluded with both parties reaffirming their commitment to sustained collaboration aimed at eradicating poverty and ensuring that the most vulnerable segments of society are integrated into Nigeria’s growth trajectory.