UNDP Official Advocates for increased Domestic Investment in Nigeria

Ahunna Eziakonwa, the UN Assistant Secretary-General and Regional Director for Africa, has emphasized the importance of prioritizing internal investment in key sectors over reliance on foreign aid, particularly for Nigeria and other African nations.

During an interview with ARISE News, Eziakonwa urged countries to rethink their dependency on external assistance, particularly in light of recent reductions in global aid. “You cannot outsource the health of your people to an aid agency,” she remarked. “Given today’s geopolitical instability and the transactional nature of international relations, it is crucial for nations to invest in what truly sustains their populations.”

Her comments were particularly relevant following USAID's recent decision to withdraw from several areas of Nigeria’s health sector. Eziakonwa commended the Nigerian government for its proactive response, allocating $200 million to address funding shortfalls, which she deemed a significant step toward fostering national accountability.

Highlighting the detrimental effects of prolonged reliance on foreign aid, she cautioned against a culture of dependency that could hinder progress. “This is a wake-up call for countries,” Eziakonwa stated. “They must recognize the necessity of retaining Africa’s financial resources to support its citizens.”

Eziakonwa pointed to the estimated $90 billion lost to illicit financial flows each year as evidence that Africa possesses substantial resources that could be utilized for local development, reducing the need for external loans and aid.

The discussion also addressed themes of innovation, climate adaptation, and youth empowerment. Eziakonwa praised Nigeria's young entrepreneurs for their potential, asserting, “To secure a brighter future, we must align their aspirations with real opportunities.”

As many African nations reassess their reliance on foreign support amid changing donor priorities, Eziakonwa’s message was clear: the future of the continent rests on self-directed investment and sustainable development strategies.