Nigeria is calling for permanent seats for Africa on the United Nations Security Council, a demand emphasized by the country’s Minister of Defence, Abubakar Badaru.
This call was made during the Summit of the Future at the 79th United Nations General Assembly held in New York, USA. The push for African representation on the council reflects the continent’s growing desire for a stronger voice in global governance.
Minister Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s significant contributions to international peace and security over the years. According to him, Nigeria has provided troops, financial aid, logistics, and civilian experts to various African nations, including Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. These efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to fostering stability and peace within the African continent.
In addition to its peacekeeping efforts, Nigeria has played a key role in ensuring regional security in West Africa and the Sahel region. The country’s involvement in tackling challenges such as insurgency and conflict in these areas further underscores its leadership position in promoting peace and security in Africa.
The demand for permanent seats for Africa on the UN Security Council reflects a broader call for reform of the international body to make it more inclusive and reflective of today’s geopolitical realities. Many African leaders argue that the current structure, which does not include permanent African representation, is outdated and fails to recognize the continent’s contributions to global peace.
By championing this cause, Nigeria seeks to strengthen Africa’s influence within the United Nations and ensure that African nations have a more direct role in shaping decisions that impact the continent and the world at large.
“He said that Nigeria has contributed to International Peace and Security in terms of troops, finance, logistics, and civilian experts to various African countries, including Guinea Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Mali, and Côte d’Ivoire. In addition, Nigeria has played a key role in regional security and stability in West Africa and the Sahel,” the ministry’s Director of Information Henshaw Ogubike said in a Monday statement.
“The Minister therefore called on the United Nations Security Council to give just representation to Africa on a permanent basis at the UN Security Council, emphasizing its importance for conscientious global peace, inclusivity, security, deepening global peace and building trust.”
Badaru also reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the United Nations’ efforts in maintaining international peace and security.
The minister who spoke on emerging security threats, highlighted the need for comprehensive strategies to prevent and address emerging security threats by
stopping illegal financial flows which will help in preventing kidnapping, banditry, and stemming illicit arms and light weapons flow.
“We urge the international community to renew efforts to address these security challenges,” he said.
