Akasoba Duke-Abiola, Nigerian law professor, diplomat and widow of Moshood Abiola the Nigerian politician, recently nominated for the office of Secretary-General of the United Nations, has said her nomination demonstrates that African women can provide leadership at the highest level globally.
Duke-Abiola made the assertion in a statement on Saturday while responding to her nomination and endorsement by African nations through the African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC), describing the development as more than personal recognition.
She said the nomination represented a “solemn call to serve”, particularly vulnerable communities, including women and children, and should be viewed in the context of the United Nations’ commitment to human rights, peace, justice, dignity and international cooperation..
“More recently I humbly obtained a Doctorate degree in Sustainable Development with emphasis on the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals and the universal ideals of peace, justice, dignity and international cooperation,” she said.
Duke-Abiola said she was particularly moved by the breadth of support from the consortium and the nations and institutions associated with it.
