Nigerian law professor Akasoba Duke-Abiola nominated for UN Secretary-General position

Her nomination and endorsement by the African Policy and Research Consortium, which includes government officials, scholars, policy leaders, and development practitioners, sends a powerful message that African women can lead globally. Duke-Abiola, the widow of the late businessman and politician Chief Moshood Abiola, stated that this endorsement highlights the potential of African women and the importance of addressing the dreams, dignity, and potential of every African child in the international agenda. She views the nomination as a call to service, particularly for vulnerable communities, women, and children, and noted its broader significance for African women and girls facing poverty, insecurity, early marriage, exclusion, and limited access to education.

Her recent doctorate in sustainable development, with an emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, reinforces her commitment to peace, justice, human dignity, and international cooperation. Duke-Abiola has begun consultations with family, elders, statesmen and women, professional colleagues, diplomatic partners, and thought leaders in Africa and internationally, emphasizing that the decision regarding the UN Secretary-General office, which she describes as a "sacred trust on behalf of humanity," must be guided by conscience, national interest, continental responsibili