Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, has called on Nigeria to take a leading role in leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCFTA, to drive regional economic growth and development.
Mohammed made this call during a high-level meeting with the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, at the Finance Ministry in Abuja.
The discussions focused on how Nigeria can maximize the AfCFTA to enhance trade and economic relations across Africa. Other key areas addressed included improving food security, strengthening social protection systems, and mobilizing UN expertise to support Nigeria’s socio-economic development goals.
“The AfCFTA presents an unparalleled opportunity for Nigeria to position itself as an economic powerhouse in Africa, driving trade and fostering regional stability,” Mohammed said, emphasizing the UN’s readiness to assist Nigeria in achieving its development priorities.
Minister Edun highlighted the Tinubu administration’s progress in tackling socio-economic challenges, noting efforts to digitalize the Direct Benefit Transfers program for greater efficiency and transparency.
“These initiatives are critical for addressing the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, especially the most vulnerable,” Edun said
He also underscored advancements in agriculture, including increased support for wet and dry season farming.
The Deputy Secretary-General was accompanied by a high-level UN delegation, including Leonardo Simão, UN Special Representative; Sa’adatu Shuaibu, UN Political Affairs Officer; Zubaida Mahmoud, UN Representative; and Sergio Mate, UN Special Assistant.
