During a two-day official visit to Nigeria, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres reiterated the organization’s unwavering support for the country’s peace-building and development initiatives.
The visit, which included a wreath-laying ceremony in Abuja, marked the 11th anniversary of the tragic 2011 terrorist attack on the UN House, which claimed 23 lives and injured 60 UN staff and partners.
Guterres described the victims—ranging from clerks to monitoring specialists working with agencies like UNDP, UNICEF, UNAIDS, and UNODC—as heroes who dedicated their lives to serving Nigerians.
He emphasized the enduring impact of their loss on the UN community and reaffirmed solidarity with the victims’ families and Nigeria as a whole.
The ceremony highlighted the UN’s commitment to supporting Nigeria in fostering peace and accountability.
Guterres stressed that perpetrators of such violence must face justice, underscoring the organization’s victim-centered approach.
He also celebrated the legacy of those lost, noting their contributions to Nigeria’s progress and the inspiration they continue to provide.
The UN, he affirmed, remains dedicated to working alongside Nigerians to build a peaceful and inclusive society.
In addition to the memorial, Guterres engaged in high-level discussions with Nigerian leaders, focusing on critical social and political issues.
Pauline Tallen, Nigeria’s Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, shared insights from a closed-door meeting, highlighting the UN’s support for advancing women’s rights.
Conversations centered on increasing women’s participation in politics, addressing gender-based violence, and promoting inclusion in decision-making processes.
Tallen also advocated for a global treaty to end violence against women, citing Nigeria’s Violence Against Persons Prohibition (VAPP) Act and Child’s Right Act as key frameworks needing stronger implementation.
She praised Guterres for his commitment to the well-being of Nigerian women and children, expressing optimism about his advocacy on these issues.
Religious and political leaders also contributed to the dialogue. John Cardinal Onaiyekan, Emeritus Catholic Archbishop of Abuja, noted that discussions with Guterres explored the role of religious leadership in fostering national development.
Guterres reportedly expressed amazement at the global talent of Nigerians and urged leveraging this potential for the country’s progress.
Onaiyekan emphasized the responsibility of religious leaders to guide their communities toward positive change, referencing the convergence of Easter and Ramadan as a moment for reflection on coexistence and better living.
Dr. Betty Edu, National Women Leader of the All Progressives Congress (APC), highlighted efforts to enhance women’s political participation ahead of the 2023 elections.
She outlined the APC’s commitment to providing free nomination forms for women and persons with disabilities, aiming to ensure their success in primaries and general elections.
Edu stressed that prioritizing women is essential for Nigeria to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), aligning political party strategies with national and global objectives.
Guterres’ visit underscores the UN’s long-standing partnership with Nigeria, emphasizing peace, gender equality, and inclusive development.
As the country navigates challenges like security and governance, the UN’s support offers hope for a more equitable and stable future.
