Nigerian diplomat and law professor, Akasoba Duke-Abiola, has accepted her nomination to contest for the position of Secretary-General of the United Nations.
Her candidacy was endorsed by the African Policy and Research Consortium, a network comprising government officials, academics, policy experts and development professionals from Africa and other parts of the world.
Duke-Abiola, who is the widow of the late businessman and politician, Moshood Abiola, said she considers the nomination a responsibility to serve humanity rather than a personal achievement.
In a statement on Saturday, she said the recognition had strengthened her resolve to promote peace, justice, human dignity and international cooperation.
She particularly highlighted the need to improve the welfare and opportunities available to vulnerable groups, including women and children.
According to her, the nomination carries significance beyond her individual ambition because it demonstrates that African women can aspire to and occupy positions of global leadership.
She noted that many African women and girls continue to face challenges such as poverty, insecurity, early marriage, exclusion and limited access to education.
Duke-Abiola also pointed to her recent doctorate in sustainable development, with a focus on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, as part of the experience shaping her interest in global development and governance.
She said she had begun consultations with family members, elders, statesmen and women, diplomats, professional colleagues and other influential figures in Africa and abroad before making further decisions on the matter.
Describing the UN Secretary-General position as a major responsibility to the international community, Duke-Abiola said any decision regarding her candidacy would be guided by conscience, Nigeria’s interests, Africa’s responsibilities and the pursuit of peace.
She further called for stronger African intellectual and policy networks capable of addressing challenges including conflict, displacement, inequality, climate-related insecurity and declining trust in international institutions.
Duke-Abiola urged women and young people to remain ambitious despite their circumstances, stressing the importance of education, courage and excellence in achieving their goals.
