The presidency has reaffirmed its commitment to a multi-stakeholder approach in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising that collaboration between government, civil society, the private sector, and local communities is essential for meaningful progress.
Speaking at the South-South Regional Consultation on Nigeria’s 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, stressed that inclusive consultations were key to ensuring that Nigeria’s development efforts reflect diverse perspectives and local realities.
“The VNRs are most useful through an inclusive, participatory process. This is why we are here—to consult widely with key stakeholders across all segments of society. This is our ‘whole-of-government and whole-of-society’ approach to SDG implementation in Nigeria,” she stated in a speech delivered by her Senior Technical Adviser, Dr. Bala Yunusa and made available to LEADERSHIP by her special adviser media Desmond Utomwen.
The regional consultation, organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs (OSSAP-SDGs), brought together government officials, civil society organisations, academia, private sector representatives, and marginalized groups from across the South-South region to assess progress on the SDGs, identify challenges, and share best practices.
According to Orelope-Adefulire, Nigeria’s third VNR, scheduled for presentation at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in July 2025, will integrate the outcomes of these consultations, ensuring that the country’s report reflects the realities on the ground.
Reiterating the need for stronger partnerships, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Nsikak Linus Nkan, affirmed the state’s dedication to the SDGs and underscored the importance of collaboration in accelerating progress.
“Akwa Ibom has made remarkable strides in healthcare, gender equality, economic growth, marine conservation, and development partnerships,” Dr. Nkan stated.
He highlighted the state’s focus on five key SDGs: modern healthcare investments, policies promoting women’s empowerment, job creation and entrepreneurship support, marine conservation efforts, and strengthened local, national, and international collaborations.
Despite the progress, he acknowledged that more work was needed to achieve the 2030 Agenda, stressing that continued engagement with all stakeholders was crucial.
The South-South consultation in Uyo is part of a nationwide engagement process, with similar meetings scheduled in Enugu (South-East), Gombe (Northeast), Kaduna (North-West), and Abuja (North Central).
The process will culminate in a National Validation in Abuja, where findings from all regions will be consolidated into Nigeria’s final 2025 VNR report.
In her goodwill message, Mrs Ime David, representing the Akwa Ibom State SDGs Focal Office, encouraged stakeholders to see the consultation as an opportunity to forge stronger partnerships and drive sustainable development.
“This summit provides an invaluable platform to share best practices and build strategic partnerships. Together, we can create a more sustainable, equitable, and prosperous society,” she said.
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