The UN deputy secretary-general, Amina Mohammed, has highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to advance inclusive development, women’s empowerment and youth-led innovation during a recent visit to the country.

Farhan Haq, UN deputy spokesperson, said this at a news conference at the UN headquarters in New York on Monday.

Ms Mohammed visited Ogun and Imo states as part of the trip, where she engaged state governments and beneficiaries of development initiatives linked to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In Ogun, Ms Mohammed met beneficiaries of the World Bank-supported Nigeria for Women Programme, while in Imo she interacted with young innovators developing technology-based solutions.

“They are working on things like AI applications, drones, e-commerce platforms and e-governance tools,” Mr Haq said.

He said the UN deputy chief commended the two state governments for initiatives aimed at promoting inclusive development, healthcare, women’s empowerment, youth innovation and digital transformation.

Ms Mohammed also met former President Olusegun Obasanjo during the visit, Mr Haq said.

The meeting at the Olusegun Obasanjo Leadership Institute (OOLI) in Ogun focused on peacebuilding, sustainable development, youth leadership and strengthening governance institutions across Africa.

Mr Haq said members of the UN country team accompanied Ms Mohammed during the engagements. The UN deputy chief also held discussions with Samuel Daramola, deputy chief executive officer of OOLI and a member of its board of trustees.

Ms Mohammed described the institute as a platform for leadership reflection and continuity, according to information from OOLI.

Mr Haq said the Nigeria leg of Ms Mohammed’s trip also included engagements in Lagos under an Africa-Diaspora Leadership Programme.

He said she later travelled to South Africa for a meeting of the Africa Expert Panel, which focuses on advancing Africa’s development priorities and strengthening the continent’s voice in the global economic system.

Ms Mohammed is expected to return to New York on Tuesday, Mr Haq said.

(NAN)