Nigeria has formally sought the support of Finland in its quest for a permanent seat on the United Nations (UN) Security Council.
The request was made by Vice President Kashim Shettima during a meeting with Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday.
Speaking at the meeting, Vice President Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s pivotal role as a major force in Africa and its ongoing efforts to unite the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).
He stated, “Nigeria remains a super force in Africa and will do all within its reach to close cultural links and ties in the effort to reunite ECOWAS and further leave no stone unturned in the quest to stabilize Africa.”
Nigeria, which is the most populous country in Africa and the sixth-most populous nation globally, has shown keen interest in securing a seat on the UN Security Council amid increasing calls from member nations for reforms and expansion of the council.
Shettima underscored the importance of Finland’s backing, noting the country’s significant role within Europe and NATO. “Nigeria has 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. And in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is a president with huge democratic credentials and commitment. With him in the saddle, Africa and the larger world would be safe, futuristic, acceptable, and more peaceful,” Shettima affirmed.
In response, President Alexander Stubb of Finland voiced strong support for the expansion and restructuring of the UN Security Council, stating, “The dictates and dynamics of the modern world demand such change.”
He also expressed Finland’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its partnership with Nigeria and exploring new areas of development cooperation between the two nations.
In a related development, Vice President Shettima held discussions with African Union (AU) Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, during which he reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to democratic consolidation and peaceful collaboration across the continent.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s interest in hosting the African Central Bank, affirming that “Africa has come of age to host one.”
AU Chairperson Mahamat expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s continuous efforts to stabilize Africa and assured that the AU will prioritize maintaining peace and stability across the continent.
