The Special Assistant to the President on Capacity Development, Mr Sadiq Rabiu, has emphasised that human capital development is vital to Nigeria’s future as the country advances its collaboration with the United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR).

Mr Rabiu made the statement following a high-level meeting with Ms Michelle Gylle-Mcdonnough, Executive Director and Assistant Secretary-General of UNITAR, at the organisation’s New York office.

Meeting focuses on training and innovation

The discussions centred on strengthening cooperation in training, innovation, and institutional development to align with Nigeria’s national priorities and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

“The vision of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR places human capital development and institutional effectiveness at the heart of our progress as a nation,” Mr Rabiu said.

Harnessing global expertise for national growth

Mr Rabiu commended UNITAR for its support of Nigeria’s development agenda, adding that the country is determined to draw on global expertise and partnerships to accelerate progress across sectors.

“Human capital is the engine that will drive our national transformation. We must leverage international collaboration to ensure sustainable growth and prosperity,” he noted.

UNITAR praises Nigeria’s proactive approach

Ms Gylle-Mcdonnough hailed Nigeria’s commitment to capacity building and affirmed UNITAR’s readiness to work closely with the government in designing and implementing impactful programmes.

“This engagement demonstrates Nigeria’s leadership in prioritising its people. UNITAR is proud to accompany the Government of Nigeria on this important journey,” she said.

The meeting forms part of President Tinubu’s broader strategy to use international cooperation as a lever for sustainable national development.

“This partnership reflects our commitment to building institutions and empowering people, which are central to Nigeria’s future,” Mr Rabiu concluded.