Amina Jane Mohammed, born on June 27, 1961, in Liverpool, England, is a distinguished Nigerian-British diplomat and politician celebrated for her transformative contributions to sustainable development and environmental policy. As the eldest of five daughters born to a Nigerian veterinarian and a British nurse, Ms. Mohammed’s life embodies a unique blend of cultural heritage and a commitment to global impact.
Ms. Mohammed’s educational journey traversed continents. She attended primary schools in Kaduna and Maiduguri, Nigeria, and later studied at The Buchan School on the Isle of Man. In 1989, she advanced her education at Henley Management College, further honing her leadership and management skills. Her career began in Nigeria, where she contributed to designing schools and clinics, exemplifying her commitment to improving social infrastructure.
Leadership in Development and Environmental Policy
From 2002 to 2005, Ms. Mohammed coordinated the Task Force on Gender and Education for the United Nations Millennium Project, highlighting her dedication to gender equality and educational development. She later served as the Senior Special Assistant to the President of Nigeria on the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), directing debt relief funds toward achieving these critical objectives.
In 2012, Ms. Mohammed was appointed as Special Adviser to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Post-2015 Development Planning. In this pivotal role, she contributed significantly to the creation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
From November 2015 to December 2016, she served as Nigeria’s Minister of Environment, where she spearheaded national efforts in climate action, environmental conservation, and sustainable resource management.
United Nations Deputy Secretary-General
On January 1, 2017, Ms. Mohammed was appointed Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations and Chair of the United Nations Sustainable Development Group. In this role, she continues to champion global initiatives aimed at sustainable development, social equity, and climate resilience.
Recognition and Accolades
Throughout her career, Ms. Mohammed has received numerous accolades for her contributions to global development and environmental stewardship. In 2006, she was awarded the Order of the Federal Republic, one of Nigeria’s highest honors. In 2007, she was inducted into the Nigerian Women’s Hall of Fame, and in 2019, she received the prestigious Global Citizen Prize World Leader Award.
Amina Jane Mohammed’s unwavering dedication to sustainability, gender equality, and environmental conservation has solidified her reputation as a visionary leader and advocate for a more equitable and sustainable world. Her legacy continues to inspire transformative action on a global scale.
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