As a proud Nigerian in the diaspora, I carry my nation deeply in my heart wherever I go. This sense of identity and commitment was profoundly felt on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, during my participation at the United Nations High-Level Political Forum (UN HLPF) in New York.
That day bore a somber tone for many of us as we received the heartbreaking news of the passing of Nigeria’s former President, Muhammadu Buhari. In a gesture of respect and remembrance, I joined fellow citizens in mourning his demise—dressed in all-black attire, with the fallen heroes emblem worn proudly. This symbolic expression was not just about grief but also about gratitude—honoring a leader whose influence shaped critical aspects of Nigeria’s democratic and developmental journey.
As I stood among global delegates and changemakers, I couldn’t help but reflect on how moments like this call us to deeper service. The late President Buhari’s tenure, marked by efforts toward national security, anti-corruption, and infrastructural growth, reminded me of the ongoing responsibility we all share as faithful compatriots to build upon our nation’s legacy.
Beyond the mourning, there was a renewed sense of hope and purpose. The HLPF provided a powerful platform for dialogue on advancing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)—especially SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-Being) and SDG 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy).
In various sessions and side events, I had the privilege of engaging with key stakeholders, including the President of ECOSOC, representatives from UNDESA, and other inspiring changemakers. Discussions centered on leveraging clean energy innovations to strengthen health infrastructure—particularly across developing nations. The insights shared by organizations such as the Global Energy Interconnection Development and Cooperation Organization (GEIDCO) and the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) highlighted how energy access can serve as a catalyst for sustainable health systems and broader socio-economic resilience.
These engagements reaffirmed my belief that sustainable energy is not just an environmental or economic agenda—it is a humanitarian necessity. Reliable energy access can power hospitals, preserve essential medicines, enable remote healthcare, and ultimately save lives.
As the world strives toward the 2030 Agenda, I remain hopeful that the spirit of unity, innovation, and global cooperation witnessed at the UN HLPF will continue to inspire transformative action—both in Nigeria and across the world.
In memory of our late President and in solidarity with all who strive for a better tomorrow, I reaffirm my dedication to contributing to solutions that align faith, patriotism, and sustainability.
May the soul of President Muhammadu Buhari rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to inspire the next generation of faithful compatriots to serve with integrity and vision.
