International
UN Appeals for Multidisciplinary Research on SDGs
UN Appeals for Multidisciplinary Research on SDGs
By: Michael Mike
The United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, has appealed for multidisciplinary research on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to drive advocacy initiatives and influence policies.
He stated the importance strengthening the role of the academia in the implementation of Agenda 2030 and achievement of the related 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), while highlighting several institutional and individual actions that could be taken, including conducting multidisciplinary research on the SDGs to drive advocacy initiatives and influence policies.
Speaking at the inauguration of the Lagos State University (LASU) SDG Youth Club organised the University’s Centre for the Actualisation of the UN SDGs (LASU-SDGs), in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Nigeria, Schmale said: “An interdisciplinary centre like this can act as an incubator for new ideas, innovations, and approaches.”
The inauguration ceremony which was officially declared open by LASU Vice Chancellor, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, was also attended by the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Office of SDGs and Investments, Mrs Abosede George; Director, LASU-SDGs Centre, Prof. Tayo Ajayi; and other senior management staff of the university.
Explaining further, the UN Resident Coordinator said that it would be desirable to have a study done on how to make Lagos transport greener; demonstrate through research, the simple value of recycling packaging or eating a more plant-based diet; organise conferences, summits, and workshops for the purpose of knowledge generation; and get the private sector to see the need to accelerate towards sustainability.
He said with COVID, Conflicts and Climate change stalling the progress of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria and across the world, “urgent action is required now if we are to rescue the SDGs.”
Schmale noted that a global SDG Summit in New York scheduled for September marks the halfway point to the 2030 deadline, and “provides an opportunity for world leaders to move from rhetoric to reality, from promises made to promises kept.”
The Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, disclosed that 800 students across all faculties and Schools in the three campuses of the university, had enlisted to be a part of the LASU-SDG Youth Club, stating that “and I find that very commendable. I congratulate the Centre for this laudable initiative.”
She said: “I believe that this is a bold step that will go a long way in building your human and leadership capacities and prepare you for a lifetime of impact. The benefits are also enormous among which is the exposure you will get to several opportunities available to you as an SDG Ambassador.”
The Permanent Secretary, Office of Sustainable Development Goals & Investment, Lagos State, Mrs. Abosede George, asserted that the younger generation remained the best asset that could drive a thriving society.
She said that the Lagos State Government established the Office of SDGs and Investment to engage the citizenry and inspire both the old and new generation of leaders towards galvanising action to urgently achieve the global agenda.
The Director, Centre for the Actualization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Prof. Tayo Ajayi, stated that the LASU-SDG Youth Club was established to serve as a platform for the youths to share their perspectives and ideas to achieve the SDGs by 2030.
“Active engagement of youth in sustainable development efforts is central to achieving sustainable, inclusive and stable societies by the target date and to averting the worst threats and challenges to sustainable development”. He added.
The President, LASU-SDG Youth Club, Obadare Adenekan, called for continued support and partnership of the United Nations and the Lagos State Government to scale up the reach and impact of the club.
He said: “I am confident that together, we can achieve great things for ourselves, our university, our country, and our planet. Together, we can raise high the banners of the Lagos State University as a model of excellence and sustainable development in Nigeria and beyond.”
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, with the assistance of Assistant Director, LASU-SDG, Dr. (Mrs.) Olayemi Soladoye, later decorated the Vice Chancellor with “SDGs-Wheel” pin as a Champion of SDGs.
UN Appeals for Multidisciplinary Research on SDGs
Nigeria, Russia to deepen military, technical cooperation
By: Zagazola Makama
The Russian Federation has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence and military-technical cooperation with Nigeria as part of efforts to promote peace, sovereignty and stability across the African continent.
Speaking at a bilateral meeting with Nigerian Defense Chief, General Christopher Musa and other officials, a Russian envoy described Nigeria as a strategic and promising partner, noting its position as the most populous country in Africa and a key regional player.
“We consider the Federal Republic of Nigeria a promising partner on the African continent. You are the largest country, and we support the efforts of the Nigerian authorities to strengthen national armed forces to safeguard the country’s sovereignty and ensure regional security,” the envoy said.
He expressed satisfaction with Nigeria’s willingness to pursue constructive cooperation with Russia in the areas of military and defence technology.
“We positively assess your commitment to fruitful cooperation with our country in military and military-technical spheres,” he added.
The Russian official called for an open discussion on current defence priorities, pledging continued support to Nigeria and other African partners.
In his response, Gen Musa, appreciated them for their support and commitment to the Armed Forces of Nigeria and for inviting him and his for the 80th victory parade.
He also appreciated them for the donation of weapons and drones to boost the campaign against terrorism within Nigeria and the Sahel Region
“Today, we discuss the most relevant issues of cooperation between our defence ministries. We value our friendship with Russia and deeply appreciate all the assistance Russia has provided assistance that has often been critical for many countries,” he said.
He praised Russia’s reliability and action-oriented diplomacy, saying, “You don’t just make promises, you fulfil them. Everyone knows Russia works for the good of peace and stability.”said General Musa.
The meeting, attended by top defence officials from both countries, is expected to yield agreements that will boost training, logistics, arms supply and intelligence-sharing in the fight against terrorism.
Nigeria, Russia to deepen military, technical cooperation
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
By: Michael Mike
Nigeria has extended its warm congratulations to Germany on the successful election of Friedrich Merz as the new Chancellor. The Conservative Leader
won with 325 votes in the 630-Seat Bundestag on Tuesday, 6th May, 2025.
A statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa read: “Nigeria commends Germany’s strong democratic traditions and values, which have once again been demonstrated through a peaceful and transparent electoral process. We are confident that under Friedrich Merz’s leadership, Germany will continue to play a pivotal role in advancing global peace, stability, and prosperity.
“As longstanding partners, Nigeria looks forward to deepening bilateral relations with Germany in areas of mutual interest, including trade, investment, security, and sustainable development. We also reaffirm our commitment to strengthening multilateral cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international fora.
“The Nigerian government and people wish the new Chancellor a successful tenure and express our readiness to work closely with Germany for the benefit of both nations and the global community.”
Nigeria Congratulates Germany on Election of New Chancellor
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has expressed profound sorrow at the passing of His Holiness Pope Francis, who died on Monday, 21 April 2025, at the age of 88 years.
The departed Holy Father, the political head of Vatican City and the head of the Catholic Church, was described in the statement as a global moral leader whose papacy was marked by humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to peace, social justice, and the dignity of all people.
The statement read: “Nigeria commiserates with the teaming population of the catholic church in the country and joins the international community, particularly the Catholic faithful worldwide, in mourning this immense loss. Pope Francis’ deep concern for the marginalized; including refugees, the poor, and victims of conflict, resonated strongly in Nigeria, where his calls for interreligious harmony and solidarity were a beacon of hope amid challenges.
“His historic 2022 apology for the Church’s role in colonial injustices, including the suffering of Indigenous peoples, indeed set a powerful example of reconciliation. Also worthy of commendation is his advocacy for peace in Africa, and other conflict areas in the world, reflecting his universal pastoral mission.”
The statement further read that: “In this moment of grief, therefore, Nigeria extends heartfelt condolences to the Vatican, the Catholic Church, and the Argentine people, who gifted the world this extraordinary pontiff.
“We pray for the repose of his soul and trust that his legacy of mercy, dialogue, and care for our common home will endure.”
Nigeria Commiserates with Catholic Church Over Demise of Pope Francis
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