Tag:

António Guterres

Guterres Demands Immediate Ceasefire, Unrestricted Aid for Gaza

by Editor September 17, 2026

written by Editor

By Chibuike Nwabuko

WASHINGTON (PRECISE POST) – United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called for an immediate ceasefire in the Middle East, urging the full implementation of the Gaza peace plan and unrestricted humanitarian access to Palestinians affected by the conflict.
Guterres made the call in remarks published on his official X handle on Thursday, stressing that the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank must not be forgotten amid the wider regional crisis.
He said the Gaza peace plan must be fully implemented and humanitarian aid allowed to reach those in need without restrictions.
“The creeping annexation of the West Bank must stop,” the UN chief said, while reiterating his call for a political solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
Guterres maintained that lasting peace in the Middle East could not be achieved without the realisation of a two-state solution involving Israel and Palestine.
“There will be no peace in the Middle East without the Two-State solution,” he said.
The UN chief also called for an immediate ceasefire as the first step towards what he described as a just, lasting and comprehensive peace.
His remarks echoed comments made during a press conference ahead of the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, where he expressed concern over the continuing suffering of civilians and developments in Gaza and the occupied West Bank.
Guterres has consistently urged all parties to prioritise de-escalation, diplomacy and dialogue, while stressing the need to uphold international law and protect civilians.

September 17, 2026 0 comments

World News

Ratify Kigali Amendment, Embrace Sustainable Cooling – Guterres Urges Countries

by Editor September 16, 2026

written by Editor

By Chibuike Nwabuko

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) – United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called on countries around the world to ratify and fully implement the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol, stressing the need for equitable and sustainable access to cooling as global temperatures continue to rise.

Guterres made the call in a statement posted on his official X handle on Wednesday to mark the International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer, commonly known as Ozone Day.

The UN chief said rising temperatures and the increasing frequency of extreme heat events had made access to efficient cooling an essential requirement for protecting lives and livelihoods.
“As temperatures rise and extreme heat becomes more common, access to efficient cooling saves lives. We must meet that need fairly and sustainably,” Guterres said.

He described the Kigali Amendment as an important instrument in addressing the environmental impact of refrigerants used in cooling equipment, particularly hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), which are potent greenhouse gases.

According to him, the implementation of the amendment is critical not only to environmental protection but also to public health, food security, livelihoods and the ability of communities to withstand the impacts of climate change.

“The Kigali Amendment tackles potent greenhouse gases used for cooling, and is essential for health, food security, livelihoods and climate resilience,” he said.
Guterres noted that the growing demand for cooling, driven partly by rising global temperatures, must be addressed in a manner that does not exacerbate the climate crisis.

He therefore urged governments to accelerate the transition towards sustainable cooling technologies while ensuring that vulnerable populations are not left behind.

“On Ozone Day, I urge all countries to ratify and implement the Amendment, accelerate the shift to sustainable cooling, and protect people and planet,” the UN Secretary-General said.

The Kigali Amendment, adopted in 2016, seeks to phase down the production and consumption of HFCs, substances widely used in refrigeration, air-conditioning and other cooling systems but which have high global-warming potential.

The agreement forms part of international efforts to protect the ozone layer while simultaneously reducing greenhouse-gas emissions.

Precise Post recalls that Guterres’ appeal comes amid growing concerns over the consequences of extreme heat and the increasing demand for cooling systems, particularly in developing countries where access to reliable and affordable cooling remains limited.

Efficient and climate-friendly cooling is considered important for preserving food and medicines, supporting economic activities and protecting people from heat-related risks.

The Secretary-General’s message therefore linked ozone-layer protection with broader efforts to address climate change, improve public health and promote sustainable development.

He called for stronger international action to ensure that the world’s transition to sustainable cooling is accelerated while ensuring that the benefits of cooling technologies are accessible to people and communities most exposed to extreme heat.

The International Day for the Preservation of the Ozone Layer is observed annually on September 16 to raise awareness about the importance of the ozone layer and international efforts to protect it.

September 16, 2026 0 comments

World News

Guterres Calls for Global Respect for International Law, Peaceful Resolution of Conflicts

by Editor September 14, 2026

written by Editor

By Chibuike Nwabuko

ABUJA (PRECISE POST) ‘- United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called on countries to uphold international law and their obligations under the United Nations Charter, amid continuing conflicts and humanitarian crises across the world.

Guterres made the call in a post on his X handle on Sunday, stressing the urgent need for peace in Gaza, the wider Middle East, Ukraine, Sudan and other conflict-affected regions.

The UN chief said the scale of ongoing conflicts underscored the need for states to recommit themselves to the principles and obligations underpinning the international system.

“From Gaza to the broader crisis in the Middle East, to Ukraine, Sudan & beyond, our world needs peace,” he said.

Guterres emphasised that states must respect their obligations under the UN Charter and international law, regardless of the circumstances surrounding conflicts or disputes.

He identified sovereign equality among states as one of the fundamental principles that must be upheld, stressing that countries should be treated as equal members of the international community.

According to the UN Secretary-General, respect for the territorial integrity and political independence of states is also essential to maintaining international peace and stability.

He further called for the protection of international navigational rights and freedoms, particularly as disputes and conflicts continue to affect security and movement across strategic waterways.

Guterres also stressed the importance of resolving international disputes through peaceful means, rather than allowing disagreements to escalate into armed conflicts.

The U.N Scribe listed compliance with international humanitarian law and international human rights law among the obligations that states must respect.

The appeal comes against the backdrop of multiple protracted conflicts and humanitarian emergencies, including the war in Gaza, the wider instability in the Middle East, Russia’s war in Ukraine and the devastating conflict in Sudan.

Precise Post recalls that the UN Secretary-General has repeatedly warned that disregard for international law and multilateral institutions threatens global peace and undermines efforts to resolve conflicts through diplomacy.

His latest remarks therefore placed renewed emphasis on the responsibility of states to respect established international norms and pursue peaceful settlements of disputes in order to prevent further escalation and protect civilian populations.

Guterres’ call also reflects the United Nations’ longstanding position that respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, human rights and international humanitarian law remains central to building a more peaceful and stable international order.

September 14, 2026 0 comments

World News

DRC: UN chief seeks $1.1bn as Ebola death toll hits 2,744

by Administrator August 28, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appealed for an additional 1.1 billion dollars to strengthen the humanitarian response to the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Guterres made the appeal at a press encounter on the outbreak at the UN headquarters in New York.

He said the 2.13 billion dollars humanitarian needs and response plan was only 48 per cent funded, warning that available resources would last only weeks.

According to him, 5,713 Ebola cases had been confirmed in the DRC as of Aug. 25, with 2,744 deaths recorded.

“With about 500 new cases being reported every week, the outbreak continues to expand across a vast area, with women and children being hit especially hard,” he said.

Guterres described the situation as the largest Ebola outbreak in the DRC’s history and a public health emergency in one of the world’s most fragile settings.

He said decades of conflict, particularly in Ituri Province, had displaced about one million people and weakened access to healthcare, food and other basic services.

“Across the region, more than 12 million people need humanitarian assistance and protection,” he said.

The UN chief said overstretched health systems, weak infrastructure and insecurity were making it difficult to reach affected communities.

He said more than 40 health workers had lost their lives in the response, while others had been infected.

“Treatment centres and ambulances have been attacked. Humanitarian personnel face both the threat of the virus and the threat of violence,” he said.

Guterres said the DRC Government was leading the response with support from the UN, WHO and other partners.

He said the UN had appointed a Senior Ebola Coordinator and was focusing on community engagement, disease surveillance, treat dollarsment, safe and dignified burials and preventing further transmission.

He added that preparedness and coordination were being strengthened with South Sudan and the Central African Republic because of cross-border movements.

Guterres commended the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC) for its role in mobilising regional expertise and support.

He said the UN had provided more than 80 million dollars through pooled funds and developed the 2.13 billion dollars response plan, but warned that funding remained inadequate.

“Without additional funding, vital operations will run out of money just when they need to expand,” he said.

Guterres said Ebola could be contained because the world had the knowledge and tools to stop transmission and save lives.

He, however, urged the international community to overcome what he described as “the virus of indifference” by providing greater political attention and resources to the crisis. (NAN)

August 28, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN chief condemns gang attack that killed dozens in Haiti

by Administrator August 26, 2026

written by Administrator

HAITI – UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has condemned a gang attack on a commune on the outskirts of the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince that killed dozens of people, said his spokesperson.

The secretary-general condemned the latest gang attack on Kenscoff that reportedly killed at least 47 people on Sunday night, including 22 who were reportedly executed in a church compound where they had found shelter, said Stephane Dujarric.

“The relentless gang attacks on communities and the loss of lives underscore the alarming security conditions in Haiti and reinforce the urgent need to intensify Haitian and international security efforts to counter gangs,” the spokesman said.

Guterres reiterated his call for Haitian authorities to ensure that those responsible for such attacks are held accountable through the specialised judicial units recently created with international support to investigate mass crimes, said Dujarric. (Xinhua/NAN)

August 26, 2026 0 comments

World News

Venezuela earthquakes: UN expresses solidarity, moblises support to help victims

by Administrator June 26, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General António Guterres has expressed solidarity with Venezuela following the twin earthquakes that struck the country.

UN spokesman, Stéphane Dujarric, said this on Thursday at UN headquarters in New York while briefing journalists on the support the global organisation is offering to the country.

At least 164 people have been confirmed dead and 971 were injured after the powerful tremors hit northern areas late Wednesday less than one minute apart.

However, it is not yet known how bad the situation is in the worst-hit state of la Guaira.

According to the U.S. Geological Survey, the first earthquake measured 7.2 on the Richter Scale.

Its epicentre was near the city of San Felipe, home to some 220,000 people. The second quake was registered at 7.5 magnitude and was reportedly the strongest tremor to hit the country in more than 125 years.

Dujarric said Guterres extended his sincere condolences to the families of the victims and wishes a speedy recovery to those injured.

Initial reports indicate significant destruction across several states, including in the capital Caracas.

Many people have reportedly been killed and injured, while others remain trapped or are still missing. Critical infrastructure has been damaged and basic services have been disrupted.

According to him, the United Nations in Venezuela, including the Humanitarian Country Team, is mobilising assistance and working closely with the Government and our partners to support the response.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs is facilitating the deployment of urban search-and-rescue teams.

He said the secretary-general welcomed the offers of solidarity and support from Member States at this critical time.

The UN chief also expresses his solidarity with the people and Government of Venezuela.

Meanwhile, the Government of Venezuela has declared a state of emergency, while international support is rapidly mobilising, including incoming Urban Search and Rescue teams from different countries and multiple offers of assistance from across the region and beyond.

Acting President Delcy Rodríguez, on Wednesday described the situation as an incident with serious consequences.

Tom Fletcher, the Emergency Relief Coordinator, said in a statement that the UN and our humanitarian partners had been fully mobilised to support the people of Venezuela.

UN agencies are mobilising assistance and will deliver support as quickly as possible. Our team in country is in close contact with Acting President Delcy Rodríguez and relevant national authorities.

A central coordination hub has been established in Caracas, with the UN supporting efforts on the ground to ensure that assistance reaches those most in need as quickly and effectively as possible.

OCHA is also supporting the coordination of incoming international search-and-rescue teams expected to arrive in the coming hours.

Own its part, UNHCR says that the effects of the earthquake are likely to exacerbate existing protection risks, particularly for returnees, displaced people and communities already facing barriers to services.

These risks include heightened risks of gender-based violence and unsafe or inadequate housing, and reduced access to health care, water, education and livelihoods, among others. (NAN)

June 26, 2026 0 comments

News

Tinubu’ll honour Nigerians working at UN – Amb. Jimoh

by Administrator June 21, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – The Permanent Representative of Nigeria to the United Nations, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, says President Bola Tinubu will confer national honours on some Nigerians serving within the United Nations system.

Jimoh made the announcement at a dinner hosted for members of the United Nations Staff Recreation Council (UNSRC) – Nigeria Association at the Nigeria House in New York.

He said the Tinubu administration recognised the outstanding contributions of Nigerians serving across the UN and remained committed to rewarding excellence and service.

“Many of you here deserve national honours,” Jimoh told the gathering,” Jimoh said.

“I can assure you that in the next batch, some of you will receive national honours for services rendered to Nigeria and the global community.”

The envoy said Tinubu would fulfil his pledge to recognise Nigerians who had distinguished themselves within the international system.

Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim with members of the association of Nigerians serving within the UN system and diplomats of the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN when Jimoh hosted them at the Nigeria House in New York

Jimoh expressed appreciation to Nigerian professionals serving across UN agencies, programmes and departments.

He suggested that the Nigerian Government should appoint some of them as ministers and heads of agencies and departments to give back some of their expertise to help develop the country.

According to him, some of them can consider taking leave of absence for some years to serve Nigeria at the federal level or in their states.

“You have continued to make Nigeria proud through your professionalism, sacrifice and contributions to the international community.

“We will stand by you and support your career. The country is here to provide all the support needed for you to succeed,” he said.

The ambassador also declared that Nigeria had returned strongly to the centre of multilateral diplomacy and global affairs.

According to him, recent diplomatic successes at the United Nations reflected the country’s renewed international influence.

“Let me thank the Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed, for her tremendous support to Nigeria,” he said.

L-R: Adedeji Ebo, Director and Deputy to the UN High Representative for Disarmament Affairs, Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim, Amb. Vivian Okeke, Director, International Atomic Energy Agency Liaison Office in New York, Ms. Cynthia Samuel-Olonjuwon, Special Representative to the UN and Director of the ILO Office for the UN and Mrs Foluke Ojelabi, President of Association of Nigerians serving in the UN system at Nigeria House in New York

Jimoh highlighted the appointment of Mrs Ahunna Eziakonwa as Special Adviser on Africa to UN Secretary-General António Guterres as one of Nigeria’s early wins within the first 90 days of his assumption of office.

Jimoh cited Nigeria’s growing success in elections into strategic positions within the UN system, including Prof. Olufemi Elias’ election into the International Law Commission after renewed diplomatic engagement by Nigeria.

He also referenced Nigeria’s leadership of the Fifth Committee on Budgetary and Administrative Matters, which he was elected just two weeks ago.

“We are presenting Esther (Eghobamien-Mshelia) next week as Nigeria’s candidate for the UN CEDAW Committee 2027-2030,” he said.

On Africa’s representation, Jimoh reiterated Nigeria’s support for reform of the UN Security Council.

“Africa accounts for about 25 per cent of the world’s population and 54 member states of the United Nations,” he said.

“Nigeria will continue to champion Africa’s agenda on Security Council reform. It is an insecurity for Africa not to be represented among the permanent members of the Security Council.”

Jimoh also disclosed that Tinubu would attend the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in September.

He said the President was encouraged by Nigeria’s achievements since re-engaging actively in multilateral diplomacy.

The ambassador also addressed concerns over insecurity in Nigeria, saying the Government is combining kinetic and non-kinetic measures to address security challenges.

Earlier, UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed, in remarks delivered by Amb. Vivian Okeke, Director, International Atomic Energy Agency Liaison Office in New York, praised Nigerians serving within the UN system.

“Together, you reflect the best of Nigeria: our resilience, our intellect, our diversity and our ambition,” Mohammed said.

The Deputy Secretary-General emphasised Africa’s growing importance to the future of global governance.

“Africa is not a beneficiary of multilateralism. Africa is a driver of multilateralism.”

She praised Nigeria’s longstanding contributions to peacekeeping, mediation, humanitarian action and development across Africa, saying “Nigeria has always understood this responsibility”.

***Amb. Jimoh Ibrahim (4th from left) flanked by senior Nigerian officials in the UN system and officials of the Nigerian Association in the UN when Jimoh hosted them at the Nigeria House in New York***

Also speaking, President of the Nigerian Association in the UN, Mrs Foluke Ojelabi, welcomed Nigeria’s renewed visibility at the United Nations.

Ojelabi said she and her Nigerian counterparts working within the UN system were “most delighted that Nigeria is back”.

She commended Nigerian professionals for their dedication and commitment to excellence.

She, however, expressed concern over the funding challenges affecting the United Nations and some staff members.

The UNSRC-Nigeria Association comprises UN employees, diplomats and retirees of Nigerian descent in New York. (NAN)

June 21, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN Security Council reform ‘absolutely essential’, says Guterres

by Administrator May 21, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, has underscored the need to expand UN Security Council membership to curb the impunity of veto-wielding “superpowers”.

Guterres stated this while addressing the press on the final day of his official visit to Japan, which is marking 70 years of cooperation with the UN.

He reiterated his long-standing call to reform outdated international institutions.

“The global problem-solving architecture, in particular, the UN Security Council and global financial institutions, are not as effective as they need to be at this challenging moment,” he said.

The UN Security Council is comprised of five permanent members – China, France, the United Kingdom, the United States and Russia, who possess the right of veto.

The Council is also comprised of 10 non-permanent members who are elected for two-year terms and wield no veto.

He stressed that “the most important reform that needs to be established is the reform of the UN Security Council.”

He called for expanding the number of permanent members, noting that only one Asian country is included when the continent contains half the world’s population.

He also expressed concerns that no African or Latin American countries are represented.

“This is a serious problem of legitimacy and of ineffectiveness, and it is absolutely essential to increase the number of Permanent Members and to increase the number of non-Permanent Members.

“This is to make the Security Council correspond to today’s world, to the realities of today’s world,” he said.

Guterres further underlined the need for “a multilateral system that is more fair, more able to continue to defend international law and hold countries accountable to it.”

The UN chief highlighted the importance of partnership in a world “rocked by conflicts, climate chaos and inequality.”

The Secretary-General regretted that mistrust and geopolitical divisions are blocking effective solutions.

“Countries are flouting international law with impunity,” he said.

The UN chief pointed to the behaviour of superpowers that violate international law, that sometimes create conflicts and use their veto power in the Security Council to guarantee their impunity.

According to him, this makes it “very difficult for the Secretariat of the United Nations to be able to contain the dramatic increase in the number of conflicts around the world,” he said.

“(Because) when the bad example comes from superpowers, other middle-sized powers all over the world think that they can do whatever they want, without any punishment,” he said. (NAN)

May 21, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN envoy urges humanitarian ceasefire in Sudan ahead of Berlin talks

by Administrator April 15, 2026

written by Administrator

BERLIN – The United Nations’ envoy to Sudan has called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire as the country’s devastating civil war approaches its third year.

Speaking ahead of an international conference on Sudan in Berlin on Wednesday, Pekka Haavisto said that a pause in fighting was critical to allow aid agencies to reach civilians caught in the conflict.

“A halt in hostilities would enable relief organisations to get assistance to ordinary people in Sudan,” Haavisto said.

He also warned about the increasing use of “very disturbing weapons, like drones,” stressing the urgency of de-escalation.

Haavisto was recently appointed as personal envoy by UN Secretary-General, António Guterres.

He has described the Berlin conference as a key opportunity for the international community to both support humanitarian efforts and push for an end to the war.

Sudan has been engulfed in conflict since April 2023, when fighting broke out between forces loyal to army chief Abdel-Fattah al-Burhan and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces led by Mohamed Hamdan Daglo.

The power struggle has triggered widespread violence and displacement across the country.

Prior to the conference, Haavisto met al-Burhan in the capital, Khartoum, and held separate talks with Daglo in Nairobi.

Neither leader is expected to attend the Berlin meeting.

The conference will bring together political leaders from Europe and Africa, along with civil society representatives, in a renewed attempt to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Organisers also aim to keep global attention on what the UN has described as the world’s largest humanitarian crisis, amid competing international focus on other conflicts.

The war in Sudan has resulted in thousands of deaths and displaced millions, with aid agencies warning of worsening conditions if fighting continues. (dpa/NAN)

April 15, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN chief warns against attacks on Iran’s civilian infrastructure

by Administrator April 7, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – UN Secretary General António Guterres called on the United has

States and Israel to refrain from attacking Iran’s power plants and other
civilian infrastructure, warning that such strikes would violate international law.

“Even if specific civilian infrastructure were to qualify as a military objective, international humanitarian law would still prohibit attacks against them if they may be expected to cause excessive incidental civilian harm,” Guterres’ spokesman Stéphane Dujarric said in New York on Monday.

He added that it was “high time for the parties to stop this conflict, as there is no viable alternative to the peaceful settlement of international disputes.”

The warnings come as U.S. President Donald Trump threatened Iran with the destruction of all bridges and power plants if it did not comply with his latest ultimatum.

Speaking at the White House, Trump said the U.S. could carry out “complete demolition” within four hours.

The deadline for Tehran to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical route for global oil and gas shipments, expires Tuesday evening (Wednesday 0000 GMT). (dpa/NAN)

April 7, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN chief urges African, Caribbean states to rebuild trust in multilateralism

by Content Admin March 30, 2026

written by Content Admin

NEW YORK- UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres has called on African, Caribbean and pacific states to rebuild trust in multilateralism, noting that the bloc can be an engine of progress to transform the world.

Guterres made the call in his remarks at the 11th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) in Equatorial Guinea.

The UN chief also urged OACPS to increase their investment in sustainable development and climate resilience.

“I thank you for your strong partnership with the United Nations. I count on you to keep raising your voices.

“And you can count on me to keep fighting for you.

“Let’s work together to share solutions, strengthen resilience, and deliver for the most vulnerable.

“Let us build a world where peace, equality and dignity become a reality for all.”

The UN chief, however. congratulated the Organisation as it marks golden jubilee.

According to him, the group represent 1.5 billion people across a dozen time zone and your partnership is needed more than ever.

“Around the world, we see conflicts raging – with profound impacts on the global economy. inequalities widening.

“Technology roaring ahead unchecked. And the climate crisis wreaking havoc.

“Inspite of all the challenges, your countries are forging innovative solutions – including on climate action and sustainable development.

“We know you can do far more if given a fair chance.”

The UN chief said that’s why Member States must deliver on the Sevilla Commitment – by reducing the cost of capital, unlocking investment, easing debt burdens, and reforming the international financial architecture and institutions so they truly work for developing countries.

He said it is why the Pact for the Future has approved key strategies and measures to better support your aspirations.

“It is why the world must do far more to confront climate injustice.

“African countries and small island developing states did not create this crisis – yet you are paying first and worst.

“The biggest emitters are failing to keep global temperature rise above the 1.5-degree limit. They must lead the way to drastically reduce emissions.

“ Support the acceleration of a just, orderly and equitable transition away from fossil fuels,’’ the UN chief said,

Guterres also urged the organisation to make good on promises for adaptation, and support for loss and damage to those on the front lines – throughout Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific.

He commended their agenda, which focused on advancing partnerships for climate resilience; securing affordable resources to accelerate progress on the Sustainable Development Goals and on strengthening South-South cooperation and regional solidarity to drive transformation.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the summit which started on Friday ends Sunday.(NAN)

March 30, 2026 0 comments

World News

UN underscores need to prioritise women’s empowerment, drive sustainable development

by Content Admin March 27, 2026

written by Content Admin

ABUJA- The United Nations has underscored the need to prioritise women’s empowerment as a driving force to ensure sustainable development in Nigeria.

Ms Elsie Attafuah, the acting Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator of the UN Nigeria, disclosed this during the Lions Day with the United Nations (LDUN) ceremony on Thursday in Abuja.

Attafuah was represented by Beatrice Eyong, UN Women Country Representative to Nigeria.

According to her, LDUN is not just an annual observance but a reminder of a historic and forward-looking collaboration that began in 1945, when the UN was founded.

Attafuah said, “Global challenges have evolved from climate change to migration, from public health crises to rising instability, from gender-based violence to women’s under-representation in political leadership.

“Let’s intensify the use of LDUN for dialogue, innovation, and shared action. The number of Out-of-School children can be drastically reduced; Women and children can be protected.

“Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals by 2030 is not too late. The UN has identified pathways to accelerate the progress of SDGs that include education; digital connectivity; food systems; energy access/affordability; jobs/social protection; and climate/biodiversity/ pollution.”

According to her, the centre of these pathways is the sacred truth that gender equality and women’s empowerment are integral to all 17 SDGs, and essential to building a peaceful, just, and sustainable world.

“Let’s take a moment to spotlight women’s empowerment as driving force for sustainable development.

“Peace, development, and human rights cannot be achieved without women leading and shaping solutions,” she said.

She reiterated that the UN and Lions International shared deeply aligned mission, which is to advance peace, support education, fight poverty, strengthen health systems, and uplift vulnerable communities.

She added that over the decades, Lions International had collaborated with UN agencies, including UNICEF, WHO, and UNESCO, to deliver humanitarian programmes across the world.

Speaking earlier, Dr Ibrahim Bello, Multiple Council Chairperson of Lions International, affirmed that partnership with the UN was rooted in shared values of service, dignity, cooperation, and the collective pursuit of a better world.

According to him, the theme, Global South, holds immense potential to lead, connect, and empower communities in shaping a more equitable future.

Bello said, “Within this Nigeria lies extraordinary innovation, resilience, and leadership, particularly from women, youth, and community actors who are driving solutions from the ground up.

“Our gathering today highlights the important role that community-based service organisations play in complementing the work of global institutions.

“While the UN provides global leadership and frameworks for action, Lions translate those ideals into tangible impact within communities, reaching the grassroots where change truly begins.” (NAN)

March 27, 2026 0 comments

World News

Gulf war ‘out of control’, Guterres warns, appoints envoy to push for peace

by Administrator March 26, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – UN Secretary-General António Guterres has warned that the escalating Gulf war by United States and Israel against Iran is “out of control”.Guterres also urged all sides to step back from the brink and allow diplomacy to prevail, as he announced the appointment of a senior envoy to spearhead peace efforts.Speaking in New York on Wednesday, the UN chief said the conflict had spiralled far beyond what leaders had anticipated.“The world is staring down the barrel of a wider war, a rising tide of human suffering, and a deeper global economic shock,” he said.He added bluntly: “This has gone too far.”In spite of mounting tensions and continued military escalation, Guterres insisted there remains a path forward.“Diplomacy must prevail,” he said. “War is not the answer”. We need a way out of this disaster.”“Diplomacy is the way out. Full respect of international law is the way out. Peace is the way out.”He confirmed he has appointed veteran diplomat Jean Arnault as his Personal Envoy to lead UN efforts to end the conflict.Guterres regretted that the war has upended the entire region with shockwaves spreading worldwide.He noted, especially, the impact on energy markets reliant on the crucial Strait of Hormuz chokepoint.He said the envoy will work “more directly on the ground” “to support all the efforts for mediation, all the efforts for peace”.According to him, he will engage with all parties and assessing the conflict’s far-reaching impacts.Guterres urged the United States and Israel that “it is high time to end the war”, while calling on Iran “to stop attacking their neighbours that are not parties to the conflict”.He also stressed that freedom of navigation, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, must be respected.He warned that the prolonged disruption of the Strait is choking vital supplies of oil, gas and fertiliser.The Secretary-General also cautioned against the broader global fallout, noting that markets are “in turmoil” and humanitarian operations constrained.He said the economic shock is hitting the most vulnerable hardest, particularly in developing countries already struggling with debt and rising costs.He pointed to the disruption of fertiliser supplies as a looming threat to global food security.“Without fertilisers today, we might have hunger tomorrow,” he warned, adding that soaring energy prices risk fuelling inflation and deepening poverty worldwide. (NAN)

March 26, 2026 0 comments

World News

Guterres calls for immediate release of detained 118 UN staff

by Administrator March 26, 2026

written by Administrator

NEW YORK – UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the immediate release of the 118 UN staff currently detained worldwide.

Guterres, in a statement marking the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members, said attacks against the UN increased with 179 personnel arrested or detained in 2025 alone.

The figure marks a significant increase from the 52 UN staff in detention in March 2025.

In Yemen alone, 73 UN staff remain detained by the de facto Houthi authorities, including eight from the UN’s human rights office.

The UN chief said “no colleague is forgotten” and urged Member States to uphold international law to ensure safe and unimpeded humanitarian work.

“Today and every day, let’s stand with those who serve humanity, and ensure they are protected and supported as they carry out their essential work,” Guterres said.

The UN has a presence on the ground in some of the world’s most dangerous and unstable locations including Gaza, Afghanistan, Sudan, Yemen, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

President of the General-Assembly, Annalena Baerbock said: “Any detention not only violates fundamental human rights, international law and immunities.

“It also undermines vital humanitarian efforts, delaying lifesaving assistance to millions of people.

“UN staff should never be a target. They are giving their lives, every day, to support communities in dire need and for the principles of the United Nations.”

In Yemen, UN staff continue to face arbitrary arrests whilst “some have been deprived of their liberty for five years now,” the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, said.

“Every day, the injustice of their detention is compounded. Their suffering, and that of their families, is intolerable,” he added.

The UN staff are being held in areas of the country under the control of the de facto Houthi authorities.

The Human Rights chief called on the de facto authorities in Yemen to release immediately and unconditionally the 73 UN staff.

“Under no circumstances can UN personnel be detained, much less charged with crimes, for undertaking their vital work on behalf of the Yemeni people,” Türk said.

Türk paid tribute to the thousands of UN staff who work in the most difficult situations, in crises and conflicts, to serve communities in need of support.

The International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff Members marks the anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett.

Collett, a former journalist working for the UN Palestine refugee agency, UNRWA, was abducted by a gunman in 1985 and his body was found in Lebanon’s Bekaa Valley in 2009.

The aim of the international day is to mobilise action, demand justice and strengthen the resolve to protect UN staff and peacekeepers.

The day is also aimed to protect workers in the non-governmental community and the press. (NAN)

March 26, 2026 0 comments

World News

Gulf war ‘out of control’, Guterres warns, appoints envoy to push for peace

by Content Admin March 26, 2026

written by Content Admin

NEW YORK- UN Secretary General António Guterres has warned that the escalating Gulf war by United States and Israel against Iran is “out of control”.

Guterres also urged all sides to step back from the brink and allow diplomacy to prevail, as he announced the appointment of a senior envoy to spearhead peace efforts.

Speaking in New York on Wednesday, the UN chief said the conflict had spiralled far beyond what leaders had anticipated.

“The world is staring down the barrel of a wider war, a rising tide of human suffering, and a deeper global economic shock,” he said.

He added bluntly: “This has gone too far.”

In spite of mounting tensions and continued military escalation, Guterres insisted there remains a path forward.

“Diplomacy must prevail,” he said. “War is not the answer”. We need a way out of this disaster.”

“Diplomacy is the way out. Full respect of international law is the way out. Peace is the way out.”

He confirmed he has appointed veteran diplomat Jean Arnault as his Personal Envoy to lead UN efforts to end the conflict.

Guterres regretted that the war has upended the entire region with shockwaves spreading worldwide.

He noted, especially, the impact on energy markets reliant on the crucial Strait of Hormuz chokepoint.

He said the envoy will work “more directly on the ground” “to support all the efforts for mediation, all the efforts for peace”.

According to him, he will engage with all parties and assessing the conflict’s far-reaching impacts.

Guterres urged the United States and Israel that “it is high time to end the war”, while calling on Iran “to stop attacking their neighbours that are not parties to the conflict”.

He also stressed that freedom of navigation, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, must be respected.

He warned that the prolonged disruption of the Strait is choking vital supplies of oil, gas and fertiliser.

The Secretary-General also cautioned against the broader global fallout, noting that markets are “in turmoil” and humanitarian operations constrained.

He said the economic shock is hitting the most vulnerable hardest, particularly in developing countries already struggling with debt and rising costs.

He pointed to the disruption of fertiliser supplies as a looming threat to global food security.

“Without fertilisers today, we might have hunger tomorrow,” he warned, adding that soaring energy prices risk fuelling inflation and deepening poverty worldwide. (NAN)

March 26, 2026 0 comments

World News

Guterres calls for immediate release of detained 118 UN staff

by Content Admin March 26, 2026

written by Content Admin

NEW YORK- UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called for the immediate release of the 118 UN staff currently detained worldwide.