Nigeria’s Commitment To SDGs Unwaivering – Speaker

By Oduyemi Odumade

Speaker of the House of Representatives, Dr. Abbas Tajudeen has emphasized Nigeria’s unwavering dedication to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

During his address at the P20 Summit in New Delhi, India. Dr. Abbas highlighted Nigeria’s comprehensive strategy for transitioning from the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to the SDGs, emphasizing the country’s commitment to not just rhetoric but concrete action.

According to the Speaker, since 2016, Nigeria has made significant strides in institutionalizing the SDGs within its national framework.

“The establishment of the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs has played a crucial role in implementing strategic initiatives and programs”.

“Nigeria has conducted independent country-led evaluations of SDG-3 (quality health and well-being for all) and SDG-4 (inclusive education and lifelong learning for all), demonstrating its commitment to robust monitoring mechanisms and transparency.”

“Furthermore, Nigeria’s influence on the international stage was underscored by its sponsorship of the United Nations’ Resolution A/77/L.64, which focused on enhancing voluntary national reviews through country-led evaluations.”

“The resolution received support from various countries, including Russia, China, Jamaica, Senegal, and South Africa, further emphasizing Nigeria’s global commitment to monitoring SDG progress”.

The Speaker explained that Nigeria’s dedication to financing the SDGs was solidified with the launch of the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF), in which the country played a central role.

“Additionally, Nigeria developed the Integrated Sustainable Development Goals (iSDGs) Simulation Model, a locally tailored analytical framework and policy simulation tool for the SDGs, enabling efficient allocation of resources at the national and sub-national levels.” He said.

Dr Abbas said despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Nigeria remains resolute in its pursuit of the SDGs.

“The pandemic has strained healthcare systems, diverted resources, and disrupted routine healthcare services, leading to setbacks in various SDG-related areas” he noted.

The Speaker, further stated that Nigeria has taken legislative action to address these issues, passing the Out-of-School Children Commission Act 2023 and enacting the Climate Change Act, making it the first Parliament in Africa to do so.

“Through these measures and ongoing collaboration, Nigeria aims to achieve the SDGs with an emphasis on inclusivity and equitable development”

Nigeria’s commitment is to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all Nigerians by 2030 and beyond” he said.

Edited By Grace Namiji