Abuja, Nigeria – The European Union (EU) and the United Nations (UN) in Nigeria have held a high-level meeting to boost their partnership in supporting the country’s development goals. The discussions, held in the capital Abuja on Tuesday, focused on closer collaboration and better coordination in their work.
The meeting was jointly convened by the EU Ambassador to Nigeria and ECOWAS, Gautier Mignot, and the UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Malick Fall. Ambassadors from EU member states in Nigeria and heads of various UN agencies in the country were also in attendance.
Ambassador Mignot emphasised the importance of the EU-UN partnership in a world where international cooperation is facing challenges. He described it as a “strong and reliable source of financial and technical support” for Nigeria, respecting the country’s independence and working towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He further stated that the EU, along with its member states as “Team Europe” and through its Global Gateway strategy, would continue to collaborate with UN agencies to create economic and social opportunities, particularly for the most vulnerable in Nigeria.
Mr. Fall echoed this sentiment, highlighting that strong partnerships and institutions are crucial for advancing the SDGs. He noted that the strategic alliance between the UN and the EU, both globally and within Nigeria, has become increasingly important in delivering shared objectives.
He pointed to ongoing transformations within both organisations – the EU’s Global Gateway Strategy and Team Europe initiative, and the UN’s efforts to enhance efficiency and impact – as providing a timely opportunity to strengthen their collaboration.
Mr. Fall also acknowledged the current challenging global environment in terms of funding and political will, describing it as a “necessary wake-up call for multilateralism and international solidarity.” He assured that the UN remains committed to working with the Nigerian government and the EU to navigate these changes and deliver on the UN’s reform agenda.
The meeting underscores the commitment of both the EU and the UN to work together in supporting Nigeria’s development priorities across various sectors.
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