The Federal Government on Thursday commended the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and called for deeper collaboration to accelerate Nigeria’s reform agenda.
The Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, gave the commendation while receiving the UNDP Resident Representative, Ms Elsie Attafuah, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Gbajabiamila acknowledged the agency’s contributions across many sectors.
He said: “UNDP has been in this country for a long time, and the things you have done across many areas are commendable.
“I want to thank you once again for supporting President Tinubu’s reform programmes.”
He cited the administration’s ‘Made-in-Nigeria’ policy as a key initiative intended to boost domestic production, create jobs, and drive industrialisation for more inclusive economic growth.
“You mentioned the Made-in-Nigeria policy, which forms part of Mr President’s reform agenda and demonstrates a strong commitment to industrialisation.
“Some call it Nigeria First. The President is very passionate about it,” he said.
Gbajabiamila said the initiative would expand local content beyond the oil and gas sector.
“How can we practicalise this and make it work across the value chain, including employment generation and economic growth?” he asked.
He urged the UNDP to support Nigeria in promoting greater female participation in politics and governance.
According to him, the agency’s experience in other countries could help Nigeria make progress without undermining cultural and religious sensitivities.
Gbajabiamila added that collaboration with the UNDP would help advance poverty reduction, improve the quality of education, support sustainable agriculture, and boost the mining sector to create greater economic opportunities.
Earlier, Attafuah thanked Nigeria for its longstanding partnership with the UNDP and commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as transformative.
She said the UNDP remained committed to supporting Nigeria’s development initiatives and aspirations.
Attafuah stated the agency was moving to a government-financed, long-term development model to align with Nigeria’s reform agenda.h.
According to her, the shift became necessary following the withdrawal of many development donors globally.
Attafuah said the Made-in-Nigeria initiative could serve as a catalyst for job creation, innovation and economic competitiveness.
She also disclosed that the UNDP had launched a University Graduate Hub initiative.
Through the platform, graduates can upload product prototypes and innovations to attract potential investors and secure financing.
Attafuah concluded by expressing optimism that strengthened collaboration between UNDP and Nigeria will accelerate sustainable development, economic growth, and improved livelihoods for all Nigerians.
