By Abubakar Yusuf
The global intervention of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) has continued to gain traction in Nigeria, with efforts towards domestication and implementation driven by vision, policy and commitment.
At the centre of these efforts is Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), whose public service career has been associated with initiatives aimed at improving the lives of vulnerable and underserved Nigerians.
Over the years, Orelope-Adefulire has championed programmes designed to provide opportunities for people at the grassroots, subnational and national levels, while also strengthening Nigeria’s engagement with the global development agenda.
Under the 17 SDGs, her office has focused on areas including education, healthcare, water and sanitation, poverty reduction, employment, empowerment and improved living conditions.
Beyond infrastructure and social interventions, emphasis has also been placed on self-sustenance, self-reliance, gainful employment and empowerment opportunities as important components of sustainable development.
These efforts have involved partnerships, collaborations and engagements with public institutions, private-sector organisations, development partners and other stakeholders towards advancing the objectives of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
Driving the Decade of Action
The SDGs Decade of Action calls for accelerated efforts to achieve the global development targets by 2030.
In Nigeria, Orelope-Adefulire has continued to advocate programmes aimed at ensuring that the impact of SDG-related interventions reaches communities across the country.
Particular attention to the subnational level has encouraged the development and implementation of programmes targeting rural communities, with areas such as healthcare, education, water supply and electricity receiving attention.
Her office has also worked with government agencies, quasi-government institutions, private-sector stakeholders and development partners in advancing the SDGs.
One of the initiatives highlighted in this regard is the Private Sector Advisory Group (PSAG), which provides a platform for private-sector participation in the implementation of sustainable development programmes.
There have also been collaborations with various government institutions and initiatives, including the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), particularly in areas affecting women and vulnerable groups.
Focus on Women’s Empowerment
Under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, Orelope-Adefulire has continued to support programmes targeted at Nigerians seeking greater access to government interventions and development opportunities.
The development of frameworks such as the Integrated National Financing Framework (INFF) is also aimed at strengthening financing and institutional mechanisms for sustainable development and ensuring that SDG-related programmes are incorporated into government policies and programmes.
According to the writer, one of the interventions associated with the SDG office has included the empowerment of more than 18,000 Nigerian women, with support involving state and local government structures.
Such initiatives, the writer notes, are intended to translate development programmes into sustainable economic opportunities and improved livelihoods.
A Birthday Tribute
As Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire marks her 67th birthday, her years of public service provide an opportunity to reflect on her involvement in Nigeria’s sustainable development efforts.
At 67, she is being celebrated for her commitment to public service, the SDGs and programmes aimed at improving the welfare of Nigerians, particularly women, vulnerable citizens and communities.
On this occasion, we congratulate Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire and wish her many more years of good health, wisdom, strength and continued service to humanity and the nation.
Written by Abubakar Yusuf
