The United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Ambassador Amina Mohammed, has met with the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, have held discussions on leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) to enhance Nigeria’s trade and economic relations across the region.
The duo discussed during a visit at the ministry’s headquarters Abuja as part of the UN’s ongoing efforts to strengthen collaboration with Nigeria on critical issues, including regional stability, economic growth, and social protection.
They also addressed strategies for improving food security, strengthening social protection systems to meet the socio-economic needs of Nigerians, and identifying ways the UN can mobilise its resources and expertise to support the country’s development goals.
The minister expressed gratitude to the UN deputy scribe, who is a Nigerian, for her sustained engagement with the country.
He detailed progress in the administration’s social safety programmes, particularly the digitalisation of its Direct Benefit Transfers initiative to enhance efficiency and transparency.
He also highlighted advancements in agriculture, noting improvements in wet and dry season farming as a result of targeted government support.
The minister received Ambassador Mohammed together with the Minister of State for Finance, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite.
The UN deputy secretary-general was accompanied by a high-level UN delegation, consisting of a UN Special Representative, Leonardo Simão; a UN Political Affairs Officer, Sa’adatu Shu’aibu; a UN Representative, Zubaida Mahmoud; and a UN Special Assistant Sergio Mate.
The Director of Information and Public Relations in the ministry, Mohammed Manga, said in a press release that the meeting marks a significant milestone in Nigeria’s partnership with the UN, paving the way for enhanced cooperation and collaboration on key development issues.
“As Nigeria continues to navigate its development journey, the support and expertise of the UN will be crucial in achieving its goals,” he added.
