The African Union (AU) Economic, Social and Cultural Council (ECOSOSCC) has underscored the need for stakeholders of government at all levels to work closely toward tackling challenges in the continent.

In his address at the inaugural ceremony of the two-day stakeholders consultative meeting in Abuja, Dr Tunji Asaolu, First-Nigerian Representative of the Permanent General Assembly of the AU-ECOSOCC, said the call had become important to achieve set targets.

The meeting themed: “Enhancing Efficiency, Growth and Sustainability Toward Implementation of AU vision in Nigera”, was organised by AU-ECOSOCC in collaboration with Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (OSGF).

Asaolu said: “The meeting will not have come at a better time than now, considering the insecurity and economic challenges, which has made standard of living difficult for our people.

“Hence, requiring our intervention, I therefore urge you to deeply be conscious of the importance of the purpose which has brought us here together.

“So, there is need for us to come together, to deal with challenges such as eradication of poverty, illiteracy, development, conflict and law of integration in the continent.

“Specifically, the scourge which undermine the progress of our people and the continent,” he said.

Mrs Agbo Victoria, the Director International Organisation Department of OSGF, said government would work closely with AU-ECOSOCC to improve the wellbeing of Nigerians.

“The role of government in popularising the activities of the AU in Nigeria is key, so that they could provide advisory support, including interactions with other nations in the continent.

“In this wise, government will continue to provide the required support within its resources and mandate of advisory bodies.

“To ensure that we get the best out of our membership in the continental body,” Victoria said.

Meanwhile, Mr Anamero Dekeri, the Managing Director of Gulf Treasures Limited and Danko Investment, stressed the need for deeper relations between the AU body and government.

Dekeri, who was conferred with Award of Excellence for his contribution to development in the continent, expressed appreciation to both AU-ECOSOCC and OSGF.

“I want to appreciate AU body for considering me for the award I do not think I really deserved.

‘It is indeed an honour that I shall never take for granted,” he said.