Guterres Calls on Nigeria to Spearhead Africa’s Efforts for a New Global Order
UN chief António Guterres supports Nigeria’s Security Council bid, commending Tinubu’s reforms and regional security leadership during the AU Summit meeting.
United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on Nigeria to spearhead Africa’s efforts for a restructured global order, highlighting the nation’s unique position to steer the continent toward enhanced global influence.
Guterres expressed his thoughts during a significant bilateral meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima at the 39th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
The UN chief lauded the economic reforms implemented by President Bola Tinubu’s administration and acknowledged Nigeria’s pivotal role in stabilising the Sahel and ECOWAS regions, even while confronting its own security challenges.
Guterres highlights that Nigeria’s demographic strength, democratic continuity, extensive natural and human resources, and enduring commitment to multilateralism provide it with a strategic advantage in influencing Africa’s future role in global affairs.
“Considering Nigeria’s demographic strength, democratic continuity, and rich resource base, the country has a genuine opportunity to guide Africa toward becoming the next superpower in the changing global landscape,” he stated.
The meeting centered on enhancing the collaboration between Nigeria and the UN to promote global economic growth, peace and security, sustainable development, and a coordinated humanitarian response throughout Africa.
Vice President Shettima expressed gratitude to the UN Secretary-General for his leadership in fostering global peace and reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to multilateralism.
“We are dedicated to multilateralism and to strengthening our collaborations with the United Nations and other international organizations,” Shettima stated.
He emphasized Nigeria’s enduring appeal for a thorough reform of the United Nations system to align with changing global dynamics, highlighting the necessity for Africa to gain enhanced representation in global decision-making frameworks.
The Vice President stated that Nigeria is entitled to a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Both leaders committed to enhancing collaboration, with Guterres reiterating the UN’s backing for Nigeria’s reform agenda and its growing leadership role in promoting peace, security, and development throughout the continent.
