The Sierra Leonean High Commissioner to Nigeria, Amb. Dr. Julius Sandy, has emphasised the critical need for African nations to unite in their advocacy for reforming the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and in the collective pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Speaking when members of the United Nations Association of Africa (UNAA) paid him a courtesy visit in his office in Abuja, the High Commissioner underscored the importance of African representation and voice within the UNSC. “It is imperative that we, as African nations, come together to advocate for reforms that reflect our diverse perspectives and address the unique challenges we face,” he stated.
“A unified African front is essential for ensuring that our continent’s interests and concerns are adequately represented on a global stage.”
The High Commissioner also highlighted the significance of collaboration among African countries to achieve the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. “The SDGs represent a comprehensive framework for development, and it is our collective responsibility to work together to realise these goals. By sharing resources, knowledge, and strategies, we can accelerate our progress towards a sustainable future,” he added.
He called on fellow African leaders to strengthen partnerships and engage in meaningful dialogue to address common challenges such as poverty, inequality, and climate change. “Together, we can develop innovative solutions that will uplift our communities and foster resilient economies,” the High Commissioner concluded.
The Sierra Leonean High Commissioner reaffirmed his commitment to facilitating discussions and initiatives that promote unity and collaboration among African nations, as well as advancing the agenda for UNSC reform and the achievement of the SDGs.
Speaking earlier, the head of delegation of UNAA, Amb. Gen. Paul Boroh (Rtd), said the association was pleased with the decision of the Sierra Leone High Commission to approve the visit. He said the association was committed in working with several African Nations in the bid to achieving target areas of the Sustainable Development Goals especially in the area of education, women and youth empowerment, agriculture as well as health and social welfare.
He also informed the High Commissioner that the association has made plans to ensure that it observes the forthcoming United Nations International Day of Education in Sierra Leone which will witness the distribution of reading materials to select schools in the country. He also congratulated the High Commissioner on his appointment as the Sierra Leonean High Commissioner to Nigeria stressing that with his track record in Sierra Leone, the association believes that there will be greater cooperation between the country and the association.
Other members of the UNAA who were part of the delegation included Amb. Nwokoma Messiah, Director of Communications; Amb. Dr. Ify Okeke, Member of SDG Council representing Goal one; Amb. Dr. Chelsea Onwudinjo, Member of Council representing Goal 4, and Amb. Suleiman Abdullahi, Director Youth Mobilisation.
