Following the launch of the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, which reveals only 17 percent of SDG targets are on track, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall, has intensified efforts to accelerate SDG achievement at the sub-national level.
Concluding a one-week visit to Lagos, Enugu, and Anambra States, Fall engaged with governors, commissioners, the private sector, civil society, traditional rulers, and youth groups. He emphasized the urgent need to accelerate SDGs to improve the well-being of people and the planet.
In Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah expressed alignment with UN mandates and the SDGs. Fall praised the state’s use of technology in education and health during his visits to Owo Smart School and a Type-3 hospital in Agbogugu community.
In Anambra, discussions with Governor Prof. Charles Soludo covered poverty alleviation, environmental threats, and social protection. Fall also highlighted the critical role of traditional rulers and stressed the need for intervention in addressing soil erosion in Eziabor village.
In Lagos, Fall met with Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, emphasizing the private sector’s role in accelerating SDGs. He also engaged with young innovators at the Africa Social Impact Summit, advocating for tech-driven solutions to societal challenges.
Throughout his visit, Fall reiterated the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s SDG efforts and emphasized the importance of innovation and technology in achieving sustainable development.
