The Federal Government has that the Voluntary National Review (VNR) is crucial to the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in line with the set objectives.
The assertion was made by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, when the Gombe State SDGs Project Support Unit hosted a pivotal North East subregional Consultation on Nigeria’s 2025 Voluntary National Review (VNR) held at International Hotel, Gombe over the weekend.
Represented by Dr. Bala Yunusa, the Senior Special Assistant to the President emphasised that these consultations ensure Nigeria’s VNR process is inclusive and evidence-based.
She stressed that the 2025 VNR will mark Nigeria’s third review, following previous submissions in 2017 and 2020 pointing out that Nigeria is set to present its progress alongside 38 other nations at the UN Summit in July 2025.
The meeting, has as theme: “Advancing Sustainable, Inclusive, and Science-Evidence-Based Solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Goals, with a Focus on Leaving No One Behind.
The VNR process is a critical mechanism for sharing experiences, including successes, challenges, and lessons learned, with the overarching aim of accelerating the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
ALSO READ; Nigeria gears up for third Voluntary National Review on SDGs implementation
The subregional consultation sought to strengthen government policies and institutions, ensuring Nigeria’s 2025 VNR aligns with global standards.
It also provided a platform to gather insights and perspectives from the North East zone, contributing to a comprehensive and effective national review.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Focal Person for the Gombe State SDGs Project Support Unit, Engr. Suleiman Turaki, welcomed participants to Gombe State.
He described the meeting as a testament to the collective effort toward advancing sustainable, inclusive, and science-evidence-based solutions for the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its goals.
He also noted that the consultation provided an opportunity to discuss progress, address challenges, and ensure no one is left behind.
Engr. Turaki expressed gratitude to all relevant partners and stakeholders for their contributions in making the meeting possible.
He highlighted that their efforts would ensure the North East region remains on track toward sustainable and equitable growth.
He urged participants to share ideas and propose solutions to foster sustainable progress, inspire innovative policies, and drive the overall development of the region and the nation.
Also speaking at the event, Ishaku Adamu, Chairman of the newly established Gombe State Disability Commission, commended the SDGs for including people with disabilities in the discussion.
He appealed for greater inclusion of persons with disabilities in the implementation of SDGs programs.
Adamu praised the Gombe State Government under the distinguished leadership of the Governor, Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya and other states in the North East that have established Disability Commissions.
He urged those that are yet to do so, to take similar steps in order to have a uniformed entity in the sub region.
and then