The United Nations (UN) has stressed the importance of prioritising women’s empowerment as a key driver of sustainable development in Nigeria.
This message was delivered by Ms. Elsie Attafuah, Acting Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator of UN Nigeria, at the Lions Day with the United Nations ceremony held in Abuja. She was represented at the event by Beatrice Eyong.
Attafuah noted that the event goes beyond a yearly observance, highlighting a long-standing partnership that dates back to 1945 when the UN was established.
She pointed out that global challenges—ranging from climate change and migration to public health crises and gender-based violence—continue to evolve, requiring stronger collaboration and innovative solutions.
“Global challenges have evolved from climate change to migration, from public health crises to rising instability, from gender-based violence to women’s under-representation in political leadership.
“Let’s intensify the use of LDUN for dialogue, innovation, and shared action. The number of Out-of-School children can be drastically reduced; Women and children can be protected.
“Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is not too late. The UN has identified pathways to accelerate the progress of SDGs that include education; digital connectivity; food systems; energy access/affordability; jobs/social protection; and climate/biodiversity/ pollution.”
She emphasized that gender equality remains central to achieving all 17 Sustainable Development Goals, noting that empowering women is essential to building a peaceful, just, and sustainable society.
“Let’s take a moment to spotlight women’s empowerment as driving force for sustainable development.
“Peace, development, and human rights cannot be achieved without women leading and shaping solutions,” she said.
Attafuah also highlighted the shared mission between the UN and Lions International, which focuses on promoting peace, education, poverty reduction, and stronger healthcare systems.
She added that Lions International has, over the years, partnered with UN agencies such as UNICEF, World Health Organization, and UNESCO to deliver humanitarian programmes globally.
Earlier, Ibrahim Bello, Multiple Council Chairperson of Lions International, reaffirmed that the partnership with the UN is built on shared values of service, dignity, and cooperation.
He noted that the Global South, including Nigeria, holds strong potential for innovation and leadership particularly from women and youth while emphasizing the role of community-based organisations in driving change at the grassroots level.
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