From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nigeria has validated its 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), launched the Nigeria SDGs Progress Report 2024, and introduced the Inclusive Data Charter (IDC) Action Plan.
The Abuja event united government officials, development partners, civil society, academia, and vulnerable groups, showcasing participatory governance to accelerate the 2030 Agenda. Nigeria will present its third VNR at the UN High-Level Political Forum (HLPF) in July 2025.
Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila emphasised internal strategies amid a shrinking multilateral space, stating, “In a shrinking multilateral space, we must look inwards for sustainable solutions to our economic, social, and environmental challenges.”
He noted, “Nigeria’s successful conduct of VNRs in 2017, 2020, and now 2025 reflects our government’s resolve to meet the 2030 target.” Gbajabiamila urged collaboration, saying, “No one must be left behind in Nigeria’s sustainable development journey.”
Senior Special Assistant on SDGs Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment, stating, “Nearly a decade after the adoption of the SDGs at the 70th UN General Assembly, Nigeria continues to demonstrate resolve in achieving them.”
Citing the 2024 UN SDGs Report, she noted, “Only 17 percent of global targets are on track, with developing countries and the poorest populations bearing the greatest burdens.” She described the VNR’s inclusive process: “Nigeria’s 2025 VNR is the product of extensive consultations across all six geopolitical zones, including targeted engagements with persons with disabilities, youth, and children.”
Orelope-Adefulire unveiled the Nigeria SDGs Progress Report 2024, detailing achievements and setbacks, and launched the IDC Action Plan 2024, developed with the National Bureau of Statistics and Sightsavers Nigeria. She emphasised, “Our commitment to leaving no one behind must be data-driven and evidence-based.” She praised the Multi-Stakeholder Core Working Group and Sightsavers Nigeria for ensuring inclusivity.
UN Resident Coordinator Mohamed Malick Fall commended Nigeria’s approach, stating, “Nigeria’s participatory approach gives us hope that the course can still be corrected.” He noted Nigeria’s inclusion among 39 countries presenting VNRs in 2025.
Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) Director General Abdulateef Shittu noted subnational efforts, saying, “Resource gaps, data limitations, and climate impacts test our resilience, but they sharpen our resolve to act smarter.” He urged renewed commitment to the 2030 Agenda.