As Nigeria continues its pursuit of the 2030 Agenda and the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), the United Nations (UN) has called for strengthened collaboration with academia.
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Matthias Schmale, emphasized the pivotal role of academic institutions in driving progress towards the SDGs during the launch of the Lagos State University (LASU) SDG Youth Club.
At the event, Schmale highlighted the importance of multidisciplinary research on the SDGs, stating that such research can drive advocacy efforts and influence policies effectively. He also stressed the significance of self-care, as per the WHO’s policy launched in 2019 and adopted by Nigeria, which empowers individuals to take charge of their health and well-being.
The LASU-SDG Youth Club, organized in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) Nigeria, serves as a platform for youths to share ideas and perspectives to achieve the SDGs by 2030. Through this initiative, the engagement of youth in sustainable development efforts is central to achieving inclusive and stable societies and averting threats and challenges to sustainable development.
The Permanent Secretary of Lagos State’s Office of Sustainable Development Goals & Investment, Abosede George, stressed that the younger generation is a critical asset that can drive a thriving society. The establishment of the Office of SDGs and Investment by the Lagos State Government aims to inspire both current and future leaders to work together to urgently achieve the global agenda.
The Director of the Centre for the Actualization of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, Prof. Tayo Ajayi, further emphasized the importance of active youth engagement in sustainable development. The LASU-SDG Youth Club aspires to raise the banners of Lagos State University as a model of excellence and sustainable development, both within Nigeria and beyond.
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator, Matthias Schmale, recognized the efforts of the LASU-SDG Youth Club and decorated the Vice Chancellor with an “SDGs-Wheel” pin as a Champion of SDGs. The call for continued support and partnership between the United Nations, Lagos State Government, and academia aims to scale up the reach and impact of the club, leading to greater achievements in sustainable development.