The United Nations has called for an annual investment of $10 billion for Nigeria to achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by 2030.
Amina Mohammed, the UN Deputy Secretary-General, made the statement on Wednesday at the MTN Nigeria Foundation’s (MNF) 20th anniversary celebration held in Abuja, titled “Unlocking Private Capital for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
Mohammed, who participated virtually, emphasised that the federal government alone cannot meet the funding requirements to achieve the SDGs and that support from the private sector is crucial.
She praised organizations like the MTN Foundation for their role in supporting sustainable development through private capital.
Mohammed stated, “Achieving our global goals will require resources far beyond the reach of governments alone. It will require support from all sectors, with the private sector’s engagement at the heart of our mission in Nigeria.
“Bridging this gap requires bold partnerships and contributions to the private sector from organisations like MTN foundation, as well as from international partners.
“It will also require creating a foundation of trust by tackling corruption, addressing illicit financial flows and fostering an environment where investments benefit all excellencies.”
She revealed that the UN was ready to support MTN foundation and other private sector partners amplify amplify the collective impact.
“We can accelerate action on the SDGs, foster innovation and address systemic barriers to development.
“Through these partnerships, we can expand green and digital transitions in a way that leaves no one behind, ensuring that progress reaches all communities,” added.
The chairman MTN Nigeria, Dr Ernest Ndukwe, said that the foundation had stayed the course in transforming lives, empowering communities and investing in Nigeria’s future.
“At MTN Nigeria, we take great pride in our commitment to concrete social investment that is long term and of high impact.
“Also, we allocate one per cent of our profit after tax to the foundation to make it possible for 50 major projects across education, healthcare and economy,” he said.
Earlier, the Acting Chairman of MTN Nigeria Foundation, Dennis Okoro, reflected on two decades of contributions to Nigerian socio-economic development, stressing the essential role of private capital in driving growth, innovation, and community upliftment.
Okoro said that these contributions came through empowering communities, driving social impact, improving access to opportunities in education, healthcare, skills, and funding community infrastructure.
“Since its inception, the Foundation has invested over N30 billion in more than 50 unique projects and initiatives, positively impacting approximately N31.3 million Nigerians in 3,323 communities nationwide.
“As we gather to celebrate two decades of impactful philanthropic and transformative community engagement, we are inspired by the theme of this milestone event, Unlocking Private Capital for Sustainable Development in Nigeria.
“We recognise the critical role that private capital plays in driving economic growth, fostering innovation and ultimately uplifting communities over the past 20 years.
“Our job, underscored by collaborations with dedicated stakeholders, has been one of progress, learning and unwavering dedication to social causes,” he added.
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