Ahunna Eziakonwa sworn in as UN Under-Secretary-General for Africa

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has sworn in Nigerian Ahunna Eziakonwa as the Under-Secretary-General and Special Adviser on Africa. The ceremony took place in New York, marking the start of her tenure in the senior role.

In her new capacity, Eziakonwa aims to advance peace, sustainable development, and opportunities across the continent. Following her swearing-in, she held bilateral discussions with Guterres regarding cooperation between the United Nations and the African Union. Key topics included Africa’s role in global financial reforms, regional economic integration, and leveraging green and digital transitions for the continent’s benefit.

Eziakonwa previously held several senior positions within the UN system, including Assistant Secretary-General and Director of the Regional Bureau for Africa at the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). Her prior experience includes serving as UN Resident Coordinator in Ethiopia, Uganda, and Lesotho.