Nigerian United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) delegate, Hon. Dr. Jim Okolo, joined representatives from China and French Polynesia at a high-level meeting at the UN headquarters in New York on October 6, 2026, to discuss development priorities across Asia and the Global South.

The meeting, held in one of the committee rooms at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA, focused on practical measures to address pressing challenges, including poverty, education, healthcare, climate action, food security, youth empowerment, gender equality and sustainable economic development.

Participants worked on an action-oriented roadmap and rapid implementation framework for developing nations, stressing the need for innovation, accountability and stronger international collaboration as the 2030 deadline approaches.

The discussions also highlighted South-South cooperation as an important avenue for promoting inclusive growth and sustainable development.

Speaking after the engagement, Okolo described the meeting as highly rewarding and productive, noting that it provided an opportunity to exchange ideas and best practices with fellow delegates committed to advancing the United Nations development agenda.

He said countries across Asia and the Global South could unlock greater development opportunities through strategic partnerships, knowledge-sharing and coordinated efforts that deliver tangible benefits to millions of people.

Beyond his role as a Nigerian UN SDGs delegate, Okolo serves as West African Regional Director for Inter-Governmental Affairs at the International Human Rights Protection Service (IHRPS), USA. He previously served as the organisation’s National Director of Peace and Conflict Resolution and has earned recognition for his contributions to peacebuilding, democratic governance and humanitarian service.

He is also a United Nations Mayor for World Peace, a former Nigeria Team Lead for International Election Observation Missions, an International Elections Diplomat and National Coordinator of Nigeria for Nouvelle Perspective International. Through these roles, he has contributed to promoting democratic values, electoral integrity, peacebuilding and international cooperation.

In Nigeria, Okolo is President of the Jim Mezie Foundation, which focuses on youth empowerment and community development. He is also Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Jimez Petroleum Resources Limited and Chairman of the Governing Council of Bridget University, Mbaise.

Observers believe the meeting could support cooperation among developing countries and strengthen ongoing efforts to address shared development challenges.

The engagement concluded with delegates committing to translate policy discussions into concrete action, with the aim of improving outcomes for communities across Asia, Africa and other developing regions before the end of the United Nations 2030 Agenda.

SOURCE: Blueprint