CIFAL Nigeria
28 January 2025, Port Harcourt, Nigeria – The United Nations Institute for Training and Research (UNITAR), in partnership with Rivers State University, has officially launched CIFAL Nigeria, a new addition to the CIFAL Global Network. The Centre is dedicated to capacity-building for public servants, policymakers, and leaders, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to drive sustainable development in Rivers State, Nigeria, and beyond.
CIFAL Nigeria: A Hub for Leadership and Sustainable Development
Hosted by Rivers State University, CIFAL Nigeria is designed to be a reference training centre for decision-makers in Rivers State, neighbouring regions in Nigeria, and other countries. Its mission is to strengthen leadership capacities, improve governance, and support sustainable development, ensuring that public officials and community leaders are equipped to enhance decision-making processes and improve the quality of life for their citizens.
CIFAL Nigeria will serve as a platform for local, regional, and national leaders to gain essential skills that enable them to advance sustainable development initiatives in their communities.
Official Launch and Key Highlights
The launch ceremony at Rivers State University brought together high-level government officials, academic leaders, and UNITAR representatives to celebrate the establishment of this strategic training centre.
The Vice-Chancellor of Rivers State University, Professor Nlerum Sunday Okogbule, welcomed guests to the event and reaffirmed the university’s commitment to driving research, innovation, and training through the CIFAL Centre.
Dr Ebru Canan-Sokullu, as the Deputy Head of the CIFAL Global Network, representing UNITAR, delivered a speech emphasising the importance of leadership training in advancing sustainable governance and bridging the gap between policy and practice.
During the event, the Cooperation Agreement between UNITAR and Rivers State University was formally signed, marking the official commitment to CIFAL Nigeria’s objectives. This was followed by the United Nations flag handover and hoisting ceremony, symbolising the Centre’s integration into the CIFAL Global Network.
Distinguished Participants and Remarks
CIFAL Nigeria
The event featured addresses from notable figures, including:
- Professor Ngozi Nma Odu, Deputy Governor of Rivers State, expressed the government’s support for CIFAL Nigeria’s role in strengthening leadership in governance and development.
- Professor Akuro Gobo, Director of IGEM, highlighted the importance of capacity-building for economic and social development.
- Amb. Prince Francis Origa, PhD, Rector and CEO of the Institute of Humanitarian Studies and Social Development, underscored the impact of leadership training on national progress.
- Dr Vetty Agalla, Executive Secretary of the Rivers State Contributory Health Protection Programme.
- Amb. Prince Francis Origa, PhD, Rector and CEO of the Institute of Humanitarian Studies and Social Development.
A Commitment to Sustainable Development and Innovation
CIFAL Nigeria is deeply aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those aimed at fostering good health and well-being, economic growth, innovation, and sustainable communities. Through its capacity-building initiatives, the Centre will play a critical role in strengthening governance, improving decision-making, and advancing policies that support sustainable development. By bringing together key stakeholders from government, academia, and civil society, CIFAL Nigeria aims to create a ripple effect, empowering leaders who will drive lasting change within their communities and beyond.
CIFAL Nigeria
Looking Ahead
As CIFAL Nigeria embarks on its mission, it aspires to become a leading centre for training public servants and community leaders, equipping them with the necessary tools to address complex governance challenges. Through a combination of training programmes, policy dialogue, and collaborative initiatives, the Centre will foster meaningful partnerships and knowledge-sharing opportunities at both the regional and international levels. With the support of UNITAR and Rivers State University, CIFAL Nigeria is set to become a driving force for sustainable progress, strengthening leadership capacities and helping to shape a more resilient and forward-thinking society in Nigeria and beyond.