UNITED NATIONS AGENDA 2030:CANADA EMBASSY HOSTS AMB. TIMOTHY NWACHUKWU, SDGs NATIONAL COUNCIL, EXPLORES COLLABORATION OPPORTUNITIES

In a grand display of international cooperation and commitment to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the Canadian High Commission in Nigeria hosted Ambassador Timothy Nwachukwu, the National Coordinator, SDG National Students Council (Office Of the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on Students Engagement), and his team at their Abuja embassy. The event served as a pivotal opportunity for dialogue, knowledge sharing, and the development of actionable strategies to empower Nigerian youth as agents of change.

Amb Nwachukwu and his delegation were warmly received by His Excellency Arash Irantalab Tehrani, Canadian Counsellor and Head of Development Cooperation, and Josephine Obinyan, Development Officer, Development Cooperation Section. Following introductory remarks, an in-depth discussion ensued on the agenda of the SDG National Students Council Nigeria in championing the implementation of SDGs in Nigeria, with emphasis on Goals 3 (Good Health and Well-being), 5 (Gender Equality), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and 10 (Reduced Inequalities).

Speaking on the importance of the visit, Amb. Nwachukwu stated, “This visit to the Canadian High Commission is a crucial step in building strategic partnerships that can accelerate progress towards achieving the SDGs in Nigeria. We are excited about the potential for collaboration with Canada and believe that by working together, we can empower students to become effective agents of change and contribute to a more sustainable future for all.”

The National Coordinator shared the various initiatives undertaken by the SDGs council in organizing awareness campaigns, seminars, and advocacy programs. These efforts according to them have been instrumental in creating a youth driven movement for SDGs, encouraging young Nigerians to take active roles as stakeholders and change-makers.

During the discussions, the Canadian High Commission representatives shared insights into Canada’s approach to implementing the SDGs, highlighting successful strategies and lessons learned. Representing the High Commissioner, His Excellency Arash Irantalab Tehrani, Canadian Counsellor and Head of Development Cooperation, Stated that “The Government of Canada has demonstrated its commitment to sustainable development in Nigeria through various initiatives, including the provision of financial and technical assistance to it’s flagship NGOs operating in Nigeria, support to Nigeria’s health sector, Gender Equality and women empowerment.

The Canadian High Commission pledged continued support for the SDG National Students Council Nigeria, reaffirming Canada’s commitment to the 2030 agenda. The SDG NSC anticipates that this partnership will significantly contribute to raising awareness, fostering innovation, and driving meaningful progress towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals in Nigeria.