UNFPA pledges enhanced collaboration with FG

United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing collaboration with the Federal Government of Nigeria in promoting population management, reproductive health, and gender equality.

This assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the newly appointed UNFPA Resident Representative, Ms Muriel Mafico, to the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Abubakar Bagudu, at the Ministry’s headquarters in Abuja on Monday.

In her opening remarks, the UNFPA Resident Representative commended the Ministry for its enduring partnership, describing it as a relationship that has remained strong for over five decades.

In response, the Minister welcomed the delegation and praised UNFPA for its ongoing support to Nigeria’s development priorities.

The Minister observed that Nigeria’s ongoing reform initiatives concentrate on ensuring that resources are directly connected to tangible results.

“Our focus is not just on spending more, but on spending better,” he said, adding, “The ongoing reforms are challenging but essential steps towards sustainable growth. Development partners like UNFPA play a vital role in helping us strengthen that link between investment and impact.”

He emphasized the importance of designing interventions that align with Nigeria’s cultural and faith-based values.

He stated, “Nigeria is a faith-driven society. Both the Bible and the Quran encourage responsible parenting and family life. When we reflect these values in our approaches, our results are stronger and more sustainable.”

The Minister also invited UNFPA to contribute to the ongoing development of Nigeria’s 2026–2030 National Development Plan, which aligns with the long-term Agenda 2050 framework aimed at creating a more inclusive and empowered economy.

We are finalising our next five-year plan, and we welcome UNFPA’s input to ensure that human capital development remains at the centre of our national priorities,” he said.

In her response, the UNFPA Resident Representative praised the Minister’s leadership and stated the agency’s willingness to keep supporting Nigeria’s population and development agenda.

“Context matters,” she noted. “We must design programmes that are culturally sensitive and community-owned. Our focus is to ensure that women, girls, and young people are not left behind.”

She further assured that UNFPA remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s reform objectives and the national census exercise, describing it as a vital tool for evidence-based planning.