UN Calls for Investment to Boost Africa's Development

The United Nations has called for urgent action to mobilize financing, strengthen partnerships, and invest in people to accelerate Africa's progress towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This statement was made by Ms.

Muriel Mafico, the UNFPA representative in Nigeria, on behalf of Ms. Wafaa Saeed, the United Nations Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, during the Africa Social Impact Summit 2026 held in Lagos.

Ms. Mafico articulated that a nation's wealth is determined not by its natural resources but by the potential of its people.

She addressed government representatives, development partners, civil society organizations, and private-sector leaders, noting that the Summit's discussions on financing are crucial for expanding opportunities for individuals and communities. She stressed the need for every child to have access to education, every young person to find meaningful employment, every woman to realize her potential, and every community to build resilience against future challenges.