By Oyintutu Oyinkolade
Prof. Akasoba Duke-Abiola has welcomed her endorsement for United Nations Secretary-General, describing the nomination as a solemn call to serve humanity, particularly women and children.
In a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja, Duke-Abiola said the endorsement by African nations, through the African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC), was greater than personal recognition.
She said the confidence reposed in her strengthened her commitment to integrity, intellectual leadership, public service and humanity.
According to her, the broad support reflects APRC’s continental reach, credibility and commitment to evidence-based leadership, regional cooperation and Africa’s rightful place in global affairs.
Duke-Abiola said her recent doctorate in Sustainable Development, with emphasis on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, further deepened her commitment to peace, justice, dignity and cooperation.
She said the nomination carried particular significance for African women, noting that millions of girls across the continent still face poverty, insecurity, early marriage and limited education.
She said the endorsement demonstrated that African women could lead globally, while urging that the dreams, dignity and potential of every African child remain central to international affairs.
Duke-Abiola expressed appreciation to nations, heads of state, institutional partners, scholars, diplomats, public servants and development advocates who contributed to her nomination.
She disclosed that she had commenced broad consultations with family, elders, statesmen, professional colleagues, diplomatic partners and thought leaders across Africa and internationally.
Duke-Abiola described the office of UN Secretary-General as a “sacred trust” and said any decision must reflect conscience, national interest, continental responsibility and global peace.
She also called for stronger African intellectual and policy networks to address conflict, displacement, inequality, climate insecurity and declining confidence in global institutions.
It would be recalled that the APRC, a Pan-African think tank, had endorsed Duke-Abiola for the UN position
The Deputy Executive-Coordinator of the body, Prof. Edward Agbai, had disclosed the development in Abuja.
Agbai said the consortium received Duke-Abiola’s nomination through the Nigerian National Think Tank for consideration for the UN’s top office, following the impending end of António Guterres’ tenure.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Funmilayo Adeyemi
