Significant Responsibility
In a press conference held at the ActionAid Nigeria Office on Monday, Mr Andrew Mamedu, the newly appointed Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, delivered his inaugural public address, outlining his vision and plans for the organisation’s future.
During the speech, Mr. Mamedu expressed his gratitude and humility for being entrusted with the role of Country Director. With 18 years of experience within the ActionAid Nigeria family and a strong background in various sectors, he conveyed his excitement to step into this significant responsibility. He acknowledged the organisation’s legacy in advocating for the rights of those living in poverty and exclusion across 70 nations.
Focus on Promoting Poverty Eradication
Mr. Mamedu emphasised his commitment to continue the work of his predecessors and to address Nigeria’s unprecedented challenges, including economic disparities, environmental crises, and human rights violations. He highlighted that 133 million people in Nigeria have been classified as multidimensionally poor according to the National Bureau of Statistics. He stressed that ActionAid Nigeria’s mission remains focused on promoting poverty eradication and transforming structures that perpetuate poverty, inequality, and injustice.
He also mentioned his intention to work closely with the ActionAid Federation and global allies to tackle global imbalances that contribute to poverty, particularly in the Global South.
He expressed his dedication to amplifying the voices of marginalised communities, championing their rights, and striving to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. He also highlighted the importance of national and international partnerships to address the root causes of poverty and inequality. In his words, “Our focus will steadfastly remain on the poor and excluded, especially women, girls, young individuals, children, and persons with disabilities.”
Dialogue and Collaboration
In his address, Mr. Mamedu pledged to foster open dialogue, collaboration, and sustainable development during his tenure as Country Director. Mamedu committed to collaborating with governments and relevant agencies to ensure a just Nigeria. “We will continue to prioritise engagement with Federal, State and Local governments, relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies who have the responsibility as duty bearers to ensure a just Nigeria,” he said.
He also mentioned his intention to work closely with the ActionAid Federation and global allies to tackle global imbalances that contribute to poverty, particularly in the Global South.
Mr. Mamedu concluded by emphasising that his leadership is a collective effort that includes the ActionAid Nigeria team, partners, and communities. He outlined his plan to set clear and measurable targets to improve the well-being of those experiencing poverty and exclusion. He called for unwavering support from stakeholders, underlining that together, they will make a positive difference.
As ActionAid Nigeria embarks on this transformative journey under the leadership of Mr Mamedu, his vision and dedication to a more equitable and just society set the stage for a promising future.
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