In honor of one of the most cherished human rights figures in the world, the United Nations Association of Nigeria (UNA-Nigeria) has urged people, organizations, and leaders nationwide to embrace the spirit of Nelson Mandela International Day by proactively addressing poverty and inequality.
In honor of Nelson Mandela’s birthday, July 18, people around the world observe the day as a time to consider his timeless principles of justice, compassion, freedom, and dignity.
The topic this year, “It’s Still in Our Hands to Combat Poverty and Inequity,” emphasized the pressing need for reinvigorated civic action in an era of widening global imbalances, according to UNA-Nigeria.
Thus, UNA-Nigeria President Professor Oluremi Olutimo asked Nigerians to embrace Mandela’s legacy through meaningful action rather than only paying respects.
“Nelson Mandela International Day is a clarion call for all of us, as Nigerians and global citizens, to take responsibility for building a society grounded in fairness and empathy—it is not just a memorial of a great man,” Olutimo said.
Communities around Nigeria struggle on a daily basis with enduring problems like youth unemployment, inadequate healthcare access, social isolation, and educational opportunity inequalities. UNA-Nigeria says Mandela’s life and values provide both a challenge to respond—not simply with admiration, but with brave action—and a ray of hope.
The day should encourage a dedication to the most vulnerable members of society, Professor Olutimo emphasized, calling on people, civil society organizations, private businesses, and government organizations to embrace Mandela’s philosophy of justice and service. “Speech and slogans are not enough. “It’s time to take deliberate action to improve the lives of those who are disadvantaged and infuse dignity into all facets of our society,” he stated.
The Association’s plea is in line with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which UNA-Nigeria is still an advocate for. In line with Mandela’s long-term purpose, the SDGs tackle a wide variety of issues, from promoting peace and inclusive societies (SDG 16) to eliminating poverty (SDG 1) and enhancing education (SDG 4).
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Drawing on Mandela’s statement that “it is not the fact that we have lived that counts in life,” Professor Olutimo stated, “everyone of us has a duty to play in our communities, schools, marketplaces, and offices. It is the impact that we have had on other people’s lives.
UNA-Nigeria called for a resurgence of grassroots initiatives, especially those that involve underprivileged groups and youth. “Civic participation and youth volunteerism are crucial. We may learn from Mandela’s legacy that significant change starts at the very beginning,” Olutimo continued.
The Association thinks Mandela Day is a timely chance to ignite change through coordinated social action in light of Nigeria’s complex development demands. Instead of merely commemorating the day with ceremonial grandeur, UNA-Nigeria promoted its use as a springboard for educational programs, community empowerment campaigns, and policy-driven cooperation between national and local organizations.
In addition, the head of UNA-Nigeria urged all Nigerians to turn Mandela Day from a commemoration into a movement. “Let this day inspire a fresh dedication to humanity. Let Nigeria become a shining example of justice and advancement. because we still hold it.
Olutimo emphasized the need of every Nigerian following the road of equity and dignity as the nations of the world commemorated Mandela Day 2025.
