The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General (DSG), Amina Mohammed and the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun have taken significant step towards strengthening bilateral cooperation and accelerating Nigeria’s economic development agenda.
Mohammed who visited the Minister in Abuja on Friday said the meeting was part of the UN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria on critical issues, including regional stability, economic growth, and social protection.
In a statement signed by Mohammed Manga, Director of Information and Public Relations of the ministry stressed that the discussions during the meeting focused on leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance Nigeria’s trade and economic relations across the region.
According to the statement they addressed strategies for improving food security, strengthening social protection systems to meet the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, and identifying ways the UN can mobilize its resources and expertise to support the country’s development goals.
The Minister who received Mohammed along the Minister of State Finance Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite expressed gratitude to the DSG for her sustained engagement with Nigeria.
He revealed some of the progresses in the administration’s social safety programmes, particularly the digitalization of its Direct Benefit Transfers initiative to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Mr.Edun highlighted advancements in agriculture noting improvements in wet and dry season farming as a result of targeted government support. The DSG was accompanied by a high-level UN delegation, including Leonardo Simão, UN Special Representative; Sa’adatu Shuaibu, UN Political Affairs Officer; Zubaida Mahmoud, UN Representative; and Sergio Mate, UN Special Assistant.
The meeting marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s partnership with the UN, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration on key development issues. As Nigeria continues to navigate its development journey, the support and expertise of the UN will be crucial in achieving its goals.