The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has reaffirmed its commitment to building the capacity of Nigeria’s military, security, and other agencies in addressing the country’s complex challenges.
Mr Matthew Alao, the Team Lead for Governance, Peace, and Security at UNDP Nigeria, stated this during the graduation of participants from the Leadership and National Cohesion (LNC) Course 2/2024 on Friday in Abuja.
The course, organised by the Martin Luther Agwai International Leadership and Peacekeeping Centre (MLAILPKC) in collaboration with UNDP and the Government of Japan, aimed to enhance leadership skills in governance, peace, security, and national cohesion.
Alao was represented by Oluwatosin Richard, Project Analyst at the Governance, Peace, and Security Unit.
He emphasised that the completion of the course marked the emergence of new leaders equipped with the vision, skills, and commitment needed to drive meaningful change in Nigeria.
Alao noted that these leaders were prepared to listen, learn, adapt, and serve others to make a positive impact on the nation.
“The past week has been a transformative experience designed to challenge conventional leadership programmes.
“The graduates have gone through intensive modules that transcend traditional boundaries, addressing critical intersections of governance, peace, security, and national cohesion.
“This is not just an academic exercise; it is a practical pathway to unlocking our collective potential,” Alao stated.
Alao also highlighted the importance of empowering individuals as a means of achieving sustainable development and reiterated UNDP’s commitment to collaborating with partners to strengthen Nigerian leadership.
He congratulated the graduates, recognising their dedication and hard work, and expressed confidence that they would make a significant impact in Nigeria, Africa, and globally.
In a similar vein, the Japanese Ambassador to Nigeria, Matsunaga Kazuyoshi, who was represented by the Defence Attaché, Lt.-Col. Morita Tatsuya, commended the course as part of broader efforts to provide comprehensive insights into leadership challenges.
Kazuyoshi emphasised Japan’s ongoing support for African-led peace support operations and capacity-building initiatives across the continent.
“We recognise the crucial role of African-led peace support operations in maintaining peace and stability across the continent.
“In Nigeria, we have been actively supporting peacekeeping operation training in partnership with UNDP and various training centres for the past six years, including this esteemed institution,” Kazuyoshi said.
