Florence Otedola, popularly known as DJ Cuppy, has made history as the first British-Nigerian to host an opening session at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
The global music sensation, philanthropist, and founder of the Cuppy Foundation, anchored the session themed “The Summit of the Future – Youth Action Day,” marking a significant milestone in her already illustrious career.
DJ Cuppy, the daughter of billionaire Nigerian businessman Femi Otedola, energized the Assembly with her keynote session, captivating the audience and bringing a youthful vibrancy to the proceedings. Her ability to engage the crowd was evident as she led the entire Assembly in a chant, igniting a sense of unity among the attendees.
During her opening remarks, Cuppy introduced herself in her signature style: “My name is Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, but you can call me Cuppy. I’m repping a country called Nigeria, in case you’ve heard of it. I’m a DJ, philanthropist, but also your moderator. But it feels like I’m more your co-host because today is all about you. It’s all about you.”
Cuppy continued, emphasising the importance of youth leadership and action. “Someone once told me, it’s not about your ‘what’, but it’s about your ‘why’. So why are we here? We believe that youth need to be able to take action. We believe in leadership that brings everyone to the table. And that’s why I’m just so proud to be here.”
She also shared her passion for education, stating, “My favourite Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is definitely 4: ‘Opportunity for Everyone to Get Quality Education.’ At my foundation, the Cuppy Foundation, I’m so proud because we provide funds for African students. So throughout today, this opening ceremony, I’d love you to get involved in the conversation,” she said to an enthusiastic audience.
In a powerful close to the event, DJ Cuppy left a lasting impression with a musical performance that electrified the crowd. She also hinted at her future political ambitions, casually suggesting she might one day become Nigeria’s first female president. The bold remark sparked excitement and stirred imaginations within the room.
In a light-hearted moment during the closing session, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed responded to Cuppy’s presidential aspirations, saying, “You told me you wanted to be Nigeria’s first female president, and what did I say? After me,” sending the audience into laughter. The playful exchange between the two trailblazing women highlighted the rising tide of female leadership in Nigeria and across the world.
Cuppy’s presence at the 74th UNGA underscored the critical role of young people in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs) by 2030. With the world’s youth population playing a crucial part in addressing global challenges, Cuppy’s call to action symbolized the growing influence of the next generation in shaping a prosperous future for all.
Beyond her philanthropic and musical pursuits, DJ Cuppy’s academic journey is equally impressive. She began with a degree in business and economics from King’s College London in 2014, followed by a Master’s in Music Business from New York University in 2015. In 2022, she earned another Master’s in African Studies from the University of Oxford. Earlier this year, Cuppy announced she had completed a third Master’s degree at Oxford, and recently revealed she is pursuing her fourth academic degree at the London School of Economics.
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