President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized the urgent need for reforms in the structure of the United Nations Security Council, advocating for its relevance in addressing contemporary global challenges.
Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s readiness to represent Africa within the United Nations, calling on G20 leaders to support the proposal, particularly following the African Union’s recent inclusion as a permanent member of the G20.
Speaking at the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu, in a statement read on his behalf by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, stressed that the Security Council’s composition must reflect the diversity and plurality of the global community.
“The Security Council should expand its permanent and non-permanent member categories to reflect the world’s diversity and plurality. Africa deserves priority in this process,” Tinubu stated.
Highlighting the need for fair representation, the president further called for two permanent seats to be allocated to Africa. “Two permanent seats should be allocated to Africa with equal rights and responsibilities. Nigeria stands ready and willing to serve as a representative of Africa in this capacity,” he affirmed.
Tinubu praised the G20’s decision to grant permanent membership to the African Union, describing it as a step toward reform-minded multilateralism.
He also commended the G20 for maintaining its tradition of inviting guest nations to participate in its activities, which he said promotes inclusivity.
The President expressed his admiration for Brazil’s leadership under President Luiz Lula da Silva, particularly for initiating the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty.
He described the alliance as a transformative effort in combating one of humanity’s most pressing challenges.
“This bold and visionary step underscores Brazil’s leadership in addressing one of the most urgent and persistent challenges facing our world today,” Tinubu noted.
He further lauded the initiative as a critical milestone in global efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty. “The creation of this Alliance marks a significant milestone in our global efforts to eradicate hunger and poverty. It sends a powerful message of solidarity to vulnerable populations around the globe,” he added.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of fostering collaboration among governments, international organizations, and civil society, describing the alliance as offering a comprehensive approach to addressing immediate needs while tackling the structural causes of hunger and poverty.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s priorities, Tinubu compared the alliance’s goals to one of the eight priority areas he outlined at his inauguration 18 months ago.
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to adopting international best practices to advance economic development and alleviate poverty.
