Tech innovation offers hope for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria, according to the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Mohamed Fall. During a recent one-week working visit to Lagos, Enugu, and Anambra states,
Fall advocated for the acceleration of SDG implementation to meet the 2030 target. His visit coincided with the release of the Sustainable Development Goals Report 2024, which revealed that only 17 percent of SDG targets are currently on track.
Engaging with various stakeholders during his tour, including governors, private sector leaders, civil society organizations, traditional rulers, and women and youth groups, Fall highlighted the urgent need to expedite SDG implementation in order to enhance the well-being of both people and the planet.
In Enugu, Governor Peter Mbah acknowledged the alignment between his administration’s vision and the UN mandates and SDGs. Fall commended the innovative approaches he witnessed, particularly at the Owo Smart School, where technology was being utilized to ensure quality education and pave the way for a brighter future for students.
In Anambra, Fall met with Governor Charles Soludo to discuss poverty alleviation, environmental threats, and social protection. He also visited Eziabor village Oko, one of over 1,000 active erosion sites in the state, emphasizing the need for urgent intervention to save lives and livelihoods. Fall called for collaboration between the federal government, state government, and development partners to address the challenging issue of soil erosion sustainably.
During his time in Lagos, Fall engaged with private sector leaders, including Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings, UBA, and Transcorp groups. He highlighted the crucial role of the private sector in advancing the SDGs and commended Elumelu’s contribution to youth development. Fall expressed optimism about the upcoming Africa Social Impact Summit, ASIS2024, stating that it would provide insights on how to rescue the SDGs in Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
The UN official was particularly impressed by the innovative solutions presented by young tech entrepreneurs. He remarked at the launch of the first-ever Timbuktoo FinTech in Africa by UNDP, stating, “With so many young people embracing tech and innovation, we see a ray of hope for a brighter, better future.”
The integration of technology and innovation in Nigeria offers promising prospects for achieving the SDGs. By leveraging the enthusiasm and creativity of young people, the country can make significant strides in addressing the various challenges outlined by the goals.
The UN’s call to accelerate SDG implementation is a crucial reminder of the importance of collective action and collaboration between government, private sector, and civil society to create a sustainable and prosperous future for all.
