![Ms. Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, at the RPD programme. [PHOTO CREDIT: Official X account of UNDP Nigeria |@UNDPNigeria]](https://crediblenewsng.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/GogL1RlXwAA2ywc-scaled.jpg)
The United Nations Development Programme, UNDP in Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Federal Government of Nigeria to ensure the effective implementation of the Regional Partnership for Democracy, RPD, across West Africa.
This assurance was given by Ms. Elsie Attafuah, UNDP Resident Representative in Nigeria, during a high-level briefing with the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, on the RPD programme held on Monday in Abuja.
Attafuah emphasized the UNDP’s continued support for the successful rollout of the RPD, describing the partnership as both timely and essential. According to her, the initiative offers a platform for context-specific, African-led solutions to the democratic challenges facing the region.
“UNDP will support the implementation of the RPD through technical assistance, capacity building, policy development informed by research, and robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms,” she stated.
“This is a value-driven commitment to reinforce democratic culture, build civic trust, and improve public sector performance. Our aim is to strengthen governance systems, drive business growth, and promote a practical, people-centered initiative.”
In his remarks, Ambassador Tuggar highlighted the importance of aligning national strategies with regional frameworks to ensure sustainable governance and effectively address challenges confronting the West African sub-region and the continent.
READ ALSO: UN, AU align agendas for Africa’s growth
He described the RPD as a flagship initiative that demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to promoting democratic values, upholding constitutional order, and reinforcing the rule of law across the region.
“This initiative is crucial for strengthening democratic institutions, encouraging inclusive civic participation, and nurturing a uniquely African civil society,” Tuggar said.
He also stressed the importance of countering misinformation, disinformation, and the negative influence of social media, noting that “democracy cannot thrive without truth.”
“The institutions we sometimes criticize for being weak are the same ones we depend on to safeguard democracy. Strengthening these institutions is not optional—it is essential,” he concluded.
The RPD is a strategic initiative developed jointly by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the UNDP to promote democratic consolidation and strengthen governance systems across West Africa. UNDP, the UN’s lead development agency, operates in over 170 countries and territories to combat poverty, reduce inequalities, and support the development of resilient institutions.
NAN
