UNDP pledges support for North-East Nigeria's security and development plan
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
The United Nations Development Programme UNDP has committed to supporting the six states of North-East Nigeria in enhancing security and developing a comprehensive regional policy framework. This framework aims to address insecurity, poverty, and other socio-economic challenges in the region. The pledge was made during a Regional Technical Workshop on the National Regional Development Policy 2026–2030 held in Maiduguri, Borno State. Elsie Attafuah, the UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, stated that the organization will continue to assist the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and regional development commissions in designing inclusive policies. Matthew Alao, representing Attafuah, noted that the workshop is part of efforts to help the ministry develop a robust development policy aligned with global best practices. The UNDP also plans to support the North-East Development Commission in reviewing and implementing its development blueprint to reflect community aspirations and leverage its global network to attract development financing and introduce international best practices for recovery and economic growth. Mary Ogbe, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Regional Development, assured stakeholders that the proposed policy's implementation is guaranteed. Mohammed Alkali, Managing Director of the North East Development Commission, described the draft policy as a significant step towards addressing regional disparities and promoting inclusive development,
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A suspect has been arrested and confessed to stealing cash from several Super Falcons players at the Marriott Hotel in Casablanca, Morocco. The incident occurred days before Nigeria's opening match at the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations. Midfielder Esther Okoronkwo stated on social media that she, goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie, defender Michelle Alozie, and captain Rasheedat Ajibade were among those from whom over $1,000 was stolen. Okoronkwo also accused hotel staff of disrespect and failing to address the matter properly. Following public complaints, Nigerian journalist Colin Udoh confirmed the arrest and confession, adding that full restitution would be made to the players. The Super Falcons, who had been training in Mohammedia before moving to Rabat, are now focused on their tournament campaign, set to begin against Malawi on Tuesday.
The United Nations Industrial Development Organisation has selected Ogun State as a key Nigerian state to lead the country's transition to a circular economy. This recognition is based on Ogun's environmental sustainability initiatives and climate change programs. Ogun is now part of Project 220145 Component 2, which aims to advance Nigeria's green and just transition to net-zero emissions through circular economy efforts. The Commissioner for Environment, Ola Oresanya, stated that this recognition validates the state's environmental policies and adds to its achievements in climate change programs and circular economy projects. Ogun State's environmental interventions include distributing biomass smokeless stoves to over 3,000 residents, deploying electric motorcycles and compressed natural gas buses, and implementing the Blue Box waste segregation scheme, Plastic for Cash recycling program, community recycling projects, cement industry decarbonisation initiatives, and senatorial material recovery centers. These initiatives aim to promote resource recovery, reduce pollution, and create green jobs. Emem Umana, National Field Coordinator of the UNIDO Nigeria Office, commended Ogun State for its commitment and urged it to continue its environmental and socio-economic reforms, highlighting its international recognition and role as a model for other states pursuing green development.
Nigeria's Flying Eagles will start their WAFU B U-20 Championship title defense against Ghana today, Monday, in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast. This match is a repeat of the last edition's final, where Nigeria defeated the Black Satellites 2-1 in Lomé, Togo, to retain the title they first won in 2022. New head coach Abdu Maikaba aims for a winning start, stating, "We are going for an outright victory against Ghana because our objective is to retain the trophy and we have to start winning our matches from Day One." The game is scheduled for 2 p.m. local time 3 p.m. Nigeria time at the Lycée Scientifique de Yamoussoukro. Nigeria recently secured a 2-1 friendly victory against Athlétique Club de Zenuola. A win against Ghana would significantly boost the seven-time African champions' chances of qualifying for the semi-finals. Nigeria's subsequent Group B matches are against Togo on July 30 and Burkina Faso on August 2, both at 2 p.m. local time. Hosts Ivory Coast are in Group A with Benin Republic and Niger Republic.