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Navigating New Horizons

UNDP Resident Representative - Ms. Elsie G. Attafuah’s Inaugural Mission to Lagos State

By UNDP NIGERIA

On her inaugural official mission as the UNDP Nigeria Resident Representative, Ms. Elsie Attafuah embarked on a strategic visit to Lagos State from April 3rd to April 10th, 2024. This visit marked a significant milestone in UNDP's ongoing efforts to foster sustainable development and innovation in one of Africa's most dynamic and growing region.

The purpose of Ms. Attafuah's week-long mission was to strengthen existing partnerships and forge new alliances that align with Lagos State's and overall national development priorities and goal. Through a series of key meetings and engagements, the RR aimed to highlight UNDP's commitment to supporting the state’s growth through innovative and sustainable solutions.

Ms. Attafuah's first day in Lagos set the tone for what was to become a series of impactful engagements. At the UNDP Lagos office, she met with UNDP Lagos team members where together they delved into discussions around current projects and how to go about leapfrogging traditional methods to create innovative solutions that could sustain the dynamic digital ecosystem that Nigeria was eager to build.

Additionally, conversations focused on how UNDP can collectively create innovative ideas and solutions to enhance the digital ecosystem that will in turn contribute to the development agenda of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

Engagements with Financial and Technological Leaders

The first external engagement was with Mr. Moruf Oseni, Managing Director of Wema Bank. The discussions between the RR – Ms. Attafuah and MD – Mr. Oseni centered around enhancing financial models that can support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and tech startups with both being pivotal to Lagos’s economic landscape. The meeting highlighted UNDP's role in facilitating innovative financing solutions tailored to Nigeria's unique market dynamics. The strategic meeting delved deep into UNDP Nigeria’s innovative and programmatic offers in Nigeria and explored new avenues for collaboration.

Academic Collaborations for Future Growth

A significant highlight of Ms. Attafuah's visit was her engagement with Professor Folasade Ogunsola, the first female Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos. The two discussed the potential of the University of Lagos of being a hub for innovation, particularly in creating spaces that merge technology with academia and provides hands-on-experience for students. The conversation centered around the creation of innovative spaces to enhance a digital ecosystem and promote energy transition that will contribute to the development agenda of Nigeria. There were mention of future with the University of Lagos, particularly in the realm of Unipods, indicating potential collaborations in research, education, or innovation projects. The goal is to develop initiatives that prepare students for the technological demands of the future, enhancing their employability and entrepreneurial skills.

One of the standout events was a fireside chat that underscored the collaborative potential between the academic community and the private sector in accelerating the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria. This engaging discussion was hosted by Professor Chris Ogbechie from the Lagos Business School, with the participation of Professor Enase Okonedo of Pan Atlantic University. The fireside chat not only served as a forum for exchanging ideas but also as a catalyst for future initiatives. Ms. Attafuah, reflecting on the discussions, underscored UNDP’s commitment to supporting such collaborative efforts that leverage academic insights and private sector capabilities to drive sustainable development.

The engagement highlighted the importance of creating ecosystems where both educational institutions and businesses can co-create solutions to complex challenges facing Nigeria and the broader African continent. This interaction was a significant step toward building a more sustainable future, aligning closely with UNDP’s mission and the development priorities of Lagos State.

Commitment to Environmental Sustainability

In a key environmental initiative, Ms. Attafuah and Hon. Dr. Ishaq Salako from the Lagos State Ministry of Environment participated in the handover of RAC training equipment tools under the HPMP Project. This project is vital for reducing substances that deplete the ozone layer, reflecting UNDP’s commitment to environmental conservation and compliance with international environmental standards.

Cultural Engagement and Development

The visit to the Nike Art Gallery, managed by Chief Nike, was not just about appreciating art but exploring how cultural expressions can contribute to transformational development. Discussions explored integrating cultural industries into Lagos's broader economic development plan, recognizing the role of art in driving social change and economic development. Chief Nike is a visionary trail blazer, who is infusing creativity, culture, and arts, at the Nike Art Gallery to tell the Nigerian story. The gallery is home to an impressive 25,000 artwork collection. The Nike Art Gallery stands as a beacon of potential within African Continental Free Trade Area (AFCFTA) agenda for driving transformational development change across the continent by harnessing the power of the arts. UNDP hopes for a future collaboration with the gallery.

Infrastructure and Economic Development Dialogues

Another crucial meeting was with Mr. Samaila Zubairu, President and CEO of Africa Finance Corporation. The dialogue focused on how UNDP could support projects that bridge Africa’s infrastructure gap, which is fundamental to achieving sustainable development and catalyzing economic growth across the continent.

Technology and Innovation at the Forefront

Technology and innovation were also key themes during Ms. Attafuah's mission. A meeting with Mr. Gafar Lawal, Managing Director of Microsoft Africa Development Center, delved into nurturing digital talent and leveraging advanced technologies like artificial intelligence to transform various sectors in Nigeria.

Strengthening Trade and Industry

Ms. Attafuah also met with Mr. Gabriel Idahosa, President of the Lagos Chamber of Commerce & Industry. The conversation focused on enhancing the business environment and creating more opportunities for trade and industry in Lagos, which are crucial for economic diversification and growth. She commended the Chamber of the efforts in enhancing the business environment & trade opportunities in Nigeria and across the world.

Discussions with Government and Industry Leaders

A notable meeting with Mr. Tony Elumelu, Chairman of Heirs Holdings emphasized collaboration in sectors vital for youth entrepreneurship and economic growth. Key areas of discussion centered around trade investments, clean energy, youth entrepreneurship, insurance, and trade. The RR – Ms. Attafuah and Heirs Chairman – Mr. Elumelu pledge for sustainable collaboration that contribute to transformational development.

The mission concluded with a significant meeting with Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, where they discussed several strategic initiatives, including the potential to transform Lagos into a Pan-African Fintech hub. They explored collaborations on multiple fronts:

· UNDP Innovation Hub: Potential as a platform for fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.

· Timbuktoo Initiative: Exploring adaptation of its principles for local challenges.

· University Collaborations: Focusing on research and innovation projects.

· Urban Sustainability: Promoting environmental stewardship and economic vitality.

· Engagement with Executive Council: A comprehensive discussion on strategic development goals.

Ms. Attafuah’s visit not only reinforced UNDP’s commitment to Lagos State but also set the stage for a series of collaborative efforts aimed at driving sustainable growth and innovation not only in the state but the country. The engagements highlighted UNDP's integrator role in facilitating development initiatives that are both innovative and inclusive while ensuring that Lagos – as the center of excellence and home to innovative ecosystem remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s and Africa’s development narrative.