The Deputy Secretary‑General of the United Nations, Amina Mohammed, on Friday called for renewed commitment to peacebuilding, inclusive development and climate resilience.
She made the call during a working visit to Benue state, where she also met with the community of Yelewata.
Speaking against a backdrop of global uncertainty, during a town Hall meeting at Government House Makurdi, Ms Mohammed warned that conflicts, climate shocks and economic pressures are placing increasing strain on communities worldwide. “You do not stand alone,” she said, reaffirming the UN’s pledge to bridge “the reality of today and the aspirations of tomorrow”.
She referenced the ongoing conflict in Iran as a reminder of how quickly violence can escalate, stressing the importance of sustained diplomacy and regional cooperation.
She noted that global pressures are felt acutely at the local level, particularly in Benue, where insecurity, displacement and economic hardship persist. She commended the state government’s 2026 budget focus on rural development, livelihoods and sustainable growth.
She praised Nigeria’s adoption of a digital payroll system as a step towards transparency, while urging greater gender inclusion in governance.
“Increased representation for women strengthens democracy,” she said, adding that Benue, as Nigeria’s “food basket”, holds vast potential to drive food security and prosperity.
She cautioned that insecurity continues to disrupt lives and erode trust, insisting that lasting peace must be rooted in reconciliation, dialogue and inclusive leadership.
Education, she emphasised, is “the foundation for long‑term peace, inclusion and recovery”, highlighting efforts to reintegrate displaced children into schools.
On climate change, she warned that Benue faces growing risks from flooding and erratic weather, calling for investment in climate‑resilient agriculture and infrastructure.
She pledged continued UN support noting, “People are waiting. They must be given hope, not just for tomorrow, but for the years
ahead.”
Speaking on the significance of the visit the United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, Representative in Nigeria, Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef, said the visit was about the partnership between the United Nations team led by the Deputy Secretary General and the state government bringing hope, sustainable development to bring change.
“So we affirm our commitment to support the state. And we really acknowledge the leadership of the Governor of the state.
Earlier Governor Hyacinth Alia outlined his administration’s achievements in infrastructure, healthcare and job creation, alongside support for displaced persons and agricultural subsidies. He noted measures to strengthen institutions, improve flood control and establish early warning systems.
Women’s representative Diana Ochoga said the visit underscored the urgent need for collaboration between government, communities and international partners to address insecurity, rebuild trust and unlock Benue’s full potential.
She also welcomed the appointment of the state’s first female Secretary to the State Government, while urging further inclusion of women in Governance.
