Leadnaija
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has hailed Nigeria’s $200 million healthcare sector investment following the exit of USAID funding, describing the move as a significant show of leadership and self-reliance.
UN Assistant Secretary-General and Director of UNDP’s Regional Bureau for Africa, Ms. Ahunna Eziakonwa, commended the Nigerian government and the National Assembly for stepping in to close the funding gap left by the USAID withdrawal from Nigeria’s health sector.
“When I was in New York, I got the news that the Assembly voted $200 million after USAID pulled out. I felt proud as a Nigerian,” Eziakonwa stated. “That’s what governance looks like—you can’t outsource the health of your population.”
She emphasized that while some countries struggled in the wake of donor withdrawals, Nigeria’s swift action demonstrated strong governance and prioritization of public health.
“Other countries were panicking, headlines read of collapsing health systems. But Nigeria said, ‘we’ve got this.’ That’s leadership. Kudos to the National Assembly. Nigeria is leading by example in Africa,” she added.
Kalu Champions Inclusive Governance, Calls for UNDP Support
Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Kalu, used the occasion to call for stronger partnerships and support in advancing constitutional reforms, particularly those promoting gender equality in Nigeria, youth inclusion, and regional peacebuilding.
“Nigeria’s democracy cannot thrive without deliberate efforts to include women, youth, and marginalized groups,” Kalu said.
Kalu stressed the importance of the ongoing constitutional review process, which he described as a historic opportunity to remove systemic barriers limiting women’s political participation in Nigeria.
The National Assembly, he explained, is working on key amendments such as:
Introducing gender quotas in legislative seats;
Repealing discriminatory constitutional clauses;
Promoting inclusive frameworks for governance at both federal and state levels.
He further requested UNDP’s technical and advisory support for a constitutional reform summit, which will include a study tour on international best practices for gender reforms and governance structures.
Focus on South East: Peacebuilding and Post-Conflict Recovery
In addition to constitutional matters, Kalu called for UNDP’s intervention in the South East Nigeria development agenda, proposing a project modeled after the agency’s peacebuilding initiatives in the North East.
“The South East requires a tailored post-conflict recovery approach. We seek UNDP’s support to implement peace and stability frameworks in our communities,” Kalu urged.
The Deputy Speaker reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to strengthening governance and building inclusive institutions in partnership with international bodies.
By LeadNaija Newsroom
