President Bola Tinubu has congratulated his Senior Special Assistant on Sustainable Development Goals, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, on her birthday, praising her contributions to Nigeria’s sustainable development efforts and the welfare of vulnerable communities.
In a birthday message issued on September 29, Tinubu described Orelope-Adefulire, a former Deputy Governor of Lagos State, as a dedicated public servant and development advocate.
The President highlighted her work in advancing the implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in Nigeria, particularly initiatives focused on improving living conditions and welfare among vulnerable citizens and communities.
The message was signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.
Tinubu Praises SDG Advocacy
According to the presidency, Tinubu commended Orelope-Adefulire for her commitment to supporting Nigeria’s efforts to achieve the SDGs and the broader 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.
The President specifically pointed to her involvement in initiatives designed to accelerate progress towards the global development targets.
He also highlighted her role in the creation of the Presidential Council on SDGs and other advocacy groups established to support implementation efforts.
Tinubu said these initiatives reflect the principle of “Leaving No One Behind,” a central theme of the global sustainable development agenda.
The SDGs cover a broad range of development priorities, including poverty reduction, healthcare, education, gender equality, environmental sustainability and inclusive economic development.
Focus on Vulnerable Nigerians
A key element of the President’s message was Orelope-Adefulire’s work on programmes targeted at vulnerable Nigerians and communities.
The presidency said her contributions have supported efforts aimed at improving welfare and living conditions, placing social inclusion at the centre of the SDG implementation process.
Her office has previously been involved in development interventions across areas including healthcare and community infrastructure. For example, the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on SDGs has supported the delivery of health facilities as part of efforts to advance development goals at the community level.
Orelope-Adefulire’s Role in Nigeria’s SDG Agenda
Orelope-Adefulire has served as the federal government’s senior official responsible for coordinating SDG-related activities.
Her role involves supporting efforts to align national development initiatives with the United Nations goals and encouraging cooperation among government institutions and other stakeholders.
The position has also involved advocacy around issues affecting vulnerable groups and the delivery of development interventions.
In August 2026, Orelope-Adefulire called for stronger investment in funding, skills development and mentorship opportunities for young Nigerians, arguing that the country’s large youth population could contribute significantly to economic growth and sustainable development when provided with the necessary opportunities.
President Expresses Confidence in Her Continued Service
Tinubu said he expects Orelope-Adefulire to continue applying her experience and commitment to the administration’s development agenda.
“I believe she will continue to bring her experience, passion and commitment to bear in supporting the administration’s development agenda and Nigeria’s broader aspirations for sustainable growth,” the President said.
The message links her work on the SDGs with the administration’s wider development priorities, particularly efforts aimed at achieving sustainable and inclusive growth.
Birthday Wishes From the President
Beyond recognising her public service, Tinubu wished Orelope-Adefulire good health, wisdom and strength as she continues her work.
He also wished her many more years of purposeful service to Nigeria and humanity.
The birthday message comes as the federal government continues to frame the SDGs as part of its broader development planning and efforts to address social and economic challenges.
Looking Ahead to the 2030 Development Goals
With the 2030 deadline for the Sustainable Development Goals approaching, Nigeria faces the challenge of accelerating progress across the 17 global goals.
These include targets covering poverty, hunger, health, education, decent work, infrastructure, inequality and environmental sustainability.
Orelope-Adefulire’s role places her at the centre of the federal government’s efforts to coordinate and promote progress towards those objectives.
Tinubu’s birthday message therefore serves not only as a personal congratulatory statement but also as a recognition of the importance his administration attaches to the country’s SDG implementation efforts.
As Nigeria continues to pursue its development priorities, the presidency says Orelope-Adefulire will continue to contribute her experience and advocacy to efforts aimed at achieving more inclusive and sustainable development.
