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The Remarkable Journey Of SDGs And Sustainable Development In Nigeria
By Abubakar Yusuf
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) have taken root in Nigeria, gaining significant momentum since their inception seven years ago.
Spearheading this journey with utmost dedication is Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire, whose leadership and vast experience in the Lagos state government have been crucial in driving this international program.
With a relentless pursuit of the UN’s decade of action agenda (2020-2030), Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire’s tenure has witnessed the implementation of various developmental programs.
These initiatives span across economic, social, environmental, and gender-related domains, aligning with the core 17 goals of sustainable development.
Under her watch, the SDGs have become an integral part of government activities, evident through the commissioning of hospitals, schools, and skill acquisition centers.
Her interventions extended to building structures for internally displaced persons (IDPs) in Nigeria’s North Eastern states, coupled with empowerment and capacity-building initiatives.
Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire’s efforts have garnered widespread recognition, both locally and internationally.
Notable events include the INFF launch during the 77th UNGA in the United States, and the realignment of the National Statistical System (NSS) in collaboration with NBS, making Nigeria the first in Africa.
Additionally, the launch of Goals 3 and 4, covering Health and Education, positioned Nigeria favorably for international assessment.
Her dedication towards post-COVID-19 recovery led to the establishment of specialized hospitals and health centers across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
These programs, in collaboration with state governments and development bodies, have been instrumental in enhancing social services and driving Nigeria’s development in all aspects.
Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire’s leadership consistently prepares Nigeria for the yearly UNGA, demonstrating the nation’s commitment to global development.
Her exemplary service and domestication strategies earned her the esteemed title of SDGs Champion, bestowed by the UN Representative, Mathias Schamale.
Acknowledging her immense contributions, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration lauded her courage during an award ceremony by the First Lady, Mrs. Oluremi Tinubu.
The call for continuity in her role is well-deserved, considering her remarkable performance and wealth of experience that positions Nigeria on the global stage.
With numerous national awards and international recognitions, including “OFR, NPOM, and SDGs Champion,” Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire has demonstrated her reliability and competence both locally and internationally.
Her continuity will undoubtedly be advantageous, especially with the forthcoming 78th UNGA in September 2023.
As we look ahead to Nigeria’s promising future, it is evident that Princess Adejoke Orelope Adefulire’s passion and dedication to SDGs will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the nation’s sustainable development journey.
Yusuf Is A Public Affairs Analyst, Writing from Abuja, with email address yus.abubakar3@gmail.com.
A coalition of civil society organisations in Zamfara Central has publicly called on philanthropist Yazeed Danfulani to contest for the senatorial seat in the National Assembly in the 2027 elections, citing his extensive humanitarian contributions and commitment to community development.
In a statement released on Sunday, the group’s spokesperson, Nuraddeen Garba Gusau, emphasised that the growing support for Danfulani transcends mere political sentiment.
“This is about Yazeed Danfulani’s proven dedication to the welfare of our people, demonstrated consistently without ever holding elected office,” Gusau said.
Danfulani, a prominent figure in Zamfara Central, has earned widespread admiration for his charitable initiatives.
He has funded the education of numerous children, offering opportunities to those who previously faced bleak prospects.
” His generosity also extends to providing financial and material aid to the less fortunate, helping families meet their basic needs.”
He said “Beyond individual support, Danfulani has bolstered small-scale entrepreneurs by distributing cars, tricycles, and financial capital, enabling many to achieve self-reliance.
“His efforts have significantly improved livelihoods across the region. Additionally, as a key supporter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Zamfara, Danfulani has played a vital role in strengthening the party’s unity and presence in the state.
The coalition believes Danfulani’s track record as a private citizen is a testament to his potential as a legislator.
“His selfless contributions are merely a glimpse of what he could achieve with the authority to legislate and attract development at the national level,” Gusau added.
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Kaduna: Group calls EFCC, National Assembly, Kaduna state government’s intervention on alleged diversion of public funds
By Amos Tauna, Kaduna
The Executive Director of a non-governmental organization, Eagle Brain Youth Transformative and Development Initiative (EBYTDI), Mr Daniel Ejembi, has called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the National Assembly and Kaduna state government to intervene on alleged hijacking of a federal constituency project intended for public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a, Chikun Local Government Area of Kaduna State.
A statement issued by the Executive Director described the alleged diversion of the public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a.
According to him, “This diversion of public resources to a private entity is a grave injustice to the children of Dokan Mai Jama’a. We demand swift intervention by the Kaduna State Government, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), and the National Assembly to recover misused funds and prioritize education for all.”
The statement stated that investigation reveals that a federal project sponsored by Yakubu Umar Barde, former member representing Chikun/Kajuru Federal Constituency, was alleged to have been unlawfully diverted to Fatima Academy, a private school owned by Abdulhadi Abubakar.
Ejembi explained, “The project, initially earmarked for constructing a public school, was instead executed at Fatima Academy, which lacks registration with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).”
He added that the contractor, Amrah Farms Nigeria Limited (RC-1523474), with directors including Abdulyekin Bello Tahir and Bello Halimat Sadiq, executed the project in violation of its original mandate, lamenting that public schools in Dokan Mai Jama’a faced severe deficits, including dilapidated classrooms, lack of sanitation facilities, and inadequate learning resources, exacerbating educational inequalities.
The Executive Director called for immediate probe into the alleged diversion of funds by relevant anti-corruption agencies and also called for urgent construction and renovation of classrooms, toilets, and perimeter fencing in the public schools.
He also appealed for the provision of desks, learning materials, and safe water systems for students and advised for legal action against unregistered institutions like Fatima Academy and accountability for involved parties.
Catholic Pontiff, Pope Francis, has died at the age of 88, the Vatican announced on Easter Monday morning.
Late Pope had been in and out of hospital in the last few weeks. He made a surprise appearance at the Easter Sunday service at Vatican on Sunday.
Details Later…