worthy of emulation. Nigeria’s Technical Aid Corps Programme challenges the commonly held perception that Africa is only a recipient of aid. Nigeria shares commonality with many African countries in the governance and development-related challenges with which it is confronted. Although Africa is mostly at peace with itself, lingering flashpoints of conflict, such as the recent case of Madagascar, remind all of us that there is still a lot to be done. Close to half of the African population continues to live below the poverty line - which is a higher proportional share than in any other region of the world. No wonder, our countries continue to present some of the weakest indicators of social development. Given the current trends, Africa may not meet the Millennium Development Goals. Africa may also not escape the effects of the ongoing economic crisis due to the importance of international trade, foreign capital inflows, development assistance and diaspora contributions to national economies. We are convinced that the APRM will play a significant role in promoting courageous reforms that are needed to bring about changes in the political and economic environments of our countries, and in the living conditions of our populations. It is gratifying to note that, to date, 29 members of the African Union are currently participating in the APRM. However, if the APRM is to make a difference on the continent as a whole, then there is a need for the countries that have not acceded to the Mechanism to join the fold. We have agreed that the APRM should be funded principally from African resources. I call upon my colleagues to demonstrate this commitment through regular and increased funding to the APRM. More significantly, as the APRM is an agent of change and not an end in itself, countries should be supported to muster the resources and capacity required to implement the national programmes of action emanating from the assessment process. To this end partnerships from within and outside Africa are vital. I thank the APR Panel for this uniquely candid and highly insightful report that will no doubt help Nigeria further in its efforts to address the governance-related problems that it faces. Once again, I would like to congratulate the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria on this remarkable achievement and I look forward to receiving progress reports on the implementation of the National Programme of Action. III