Nigerian government has reaffirmed her readiness to partner with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO) in implementing inclusive and sustainable industrial development through its pilot project, using the program for country partnership (PCP).”
The Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Aisha Abubakar stated this while addressing the opening session of the UNIDO 16th Bi-Annual Conference in Geneva, Switzerland lately. She also called on UNIDO to replicate the PCP in Nigeria due to its comparative advantage, while advising the organisation to tailor its programmes and reforms towards a sustainable industrial base for Africa’s long term development. ‘This according to her is the core of the ‘change mantra’ of Nigeria, under the leadership of President Muhammadu Buhari.
She advised UNIDO on proper implementation of the proposed field policy and network operation plan, so that it won’t impact negatively on its operations in some member countries. The Minister assured the organization of Nigeria’s continued support.
While speaking at the occasion, UNIDO’s Director – General, Li Yong said that the organisation has achieved considerable success in its operation in the last few years. Adding, UNIDO will continue to play its crucial role in supporting member – countries in their drive towards economic growth, social inclusiveness and environmental sustainability. He further stated that UNIDO needs to progressively become a coordinator, broker and policy adviser on industry – related matters for Governments, the private sector, informational organisations and developmental institutions.
“The newly adopted programme for country partnership (CPC) approach would become the basis of all UNIDO country programmes,” he said..
Li Yong highlighted on the 2030 Agenda, SDGs and MTPF 2016 – 2019 which are in line with its strategic programmes and informed delegates that UNIDO will mark its 50th Anniversary in 2016.
In another development, the Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment and her counterpart in the Federal Ministry of Petroleum during the town hall meeting hosted by Nigeria’s Ambassador to Austria, briefed them on the various activities of the Federal Government back home and solicited for their support.
The dignitaries present at the meeting included: the Nigerian professionals in the Diaspora, , the Director of Industrial Development – O. A Awobokun, the Special Assistant to the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment – Seyi Oshikanlu, the Assistant Director of Policy Planning, Research and Statistics Department, Mimi Abu and the Press Secretary to the Minister of State or Industry, Trade and Investment, Patrick Iwhiwhu.
The 2015 conference was declared open by the outgoing President of the 15th Session, Alfredo Chuquihuara Chil of Peru; while a new President, Chtestine Stix – Hackle of Australia led the 16th Session.
The presentation made at the conference by the industrial development board deliberated on the work of its 42nd Session as well as UNIDO’s activities in support of the least – developed countries. Other meetings were held at the occasion.
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