Eziakonwa named as UN special adviser on Africa
António Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, has appointed Ahunna Eziakonwa of Nigeria as Special Adviser on Africa. Eziakonwa brings almost thirty years of UN leadership experience to this new position. She has held various senior roles within the UN, focusing on humanitarian action, development, and political engagement across Africa. Her academic background includes degrees from Columbia University and the University of Benin.
What we know
- Ahunna Eziakonwa succeeds Cristina Duarte of Cabo Verde as Special Adviser on Africa.
- In her current role, Eziakonwa oversees UNDP support to 46 African countries, working towards Agenda 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals.
- She has served as UN Resident Coordinator, Humanitarian Coordinator, and UNDP Resident Representative in Ethiopia, Uganda, and Lesotho.
- Eziakonwa managed humanitarian operations across 15 African countries as Chief of the Africa Section at UNOCHA in New York.
- She holds a Master’s degree from Columbia University and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Benin, and speaks Igbo, English, Yoruba, and French.
