The United Nations (UN) has said to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030, Nigeria requires $10 billion annually.
The Deputy Secretary General of UN, Amina Mohammed, stated this virtually at the 20th MTN Nigeria Foundation (MNF) celebration on Wednesday in Abuja.
Amina Mohammed noted that no country or government can be able to meet its financial obligation towards achieving the SDGs 2030.
She said partnerships between government and private organizations and international support must be harnessed to meet the 2030 goals.
“Achieving our global goals will require resources far beyond the reach of governments alone. It will require us to mobilize support from all sectors, with the private sector engagement at the heart of our mission in Nigeria.
“Achieving the SDGs will require ten billion dollars annually, a challenge that no government can meet alone. Bridging this gap requires bold partnerships and contributions to the private sector from foundations like MTN Foundation and from international partners,” Mohammed said.
The UN Deputy Secretary-General also emphasized the need for the government to tackle corruption and create an enabling environment for businesses.
“It also requires creating a foundation of trust by tackling corruption, addressing illicit financial flows and fostering an environment where investments benefit all excellencies.
“The United Nations stands ready to accompany the MTN Foundation and other private sector partners on this journey, amplify our collective impact together. We can accelerate action on the SDGs, foster innovation and address systemic barriers to development.
“Through these partnerships, we can expand green and digital transitions in a way that leaves no one behind, ensuring that progress reaches all communities,” she added.
On his part, the Chairman, MTN Nigeria, Dr. Ernest Ndukwe, said the telecom company has been a partner in Nigeria towards achieving the goals of education and healthcare.
“For two decades, we have stayed the course in transforming lives, empowering communities and investing in Nigeria’s future. At MTN Nigeria, we take great pride in our commitment to concrete social investment that is long-term and of high impact.
“Also, we allocate one percent of our profit after tax to the foundation to make it possible for these 50 major projects across education, healthcare and economy,” Arise TV quoted Ndukwe.