Vice President Shettima Urges African Union to Strengthen Stability in Africa and ECOWAS
Nigeria has formally sought Finland’s backing in its quest for a permanent seat on the United Nations (UN) Security Council. As the most populous country in Africa and the sixth-largest globally, Nigeria has signaled its interest in securing this position amid growing calls from various UN member states for reforms and an expansion of the Council’s membership.
Vice President Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, made the appeal during a meeting with the President of Finland, Alexander Stubb, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session in New York. Shettima underscored Nigeria’s significance as a leading force in Africa and highlighted the country’s commitment to fostering cultural ties and rebuilding cohesion within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). He further emphasized Nigeria’s role in promoting stability across Africa.
“Nigeria has 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, and with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, a leader with strong democratic values, at the helm, Africa and the wider world will become safer, more progressive, and more peaceful,” Shettima said, underscoring the nation’s readiness to collaborate closely with Finland, a key European and NATO member.
In response, Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, voiced his nation’s strong support for reforming and expanding the UN Security Council, acknowledging the evolving demands of the modern world. He reaffirmed Finland’s commitment to strengthening ties with Nigeria and exploring new avenues of cooperation and development.
In another significant development, Vice President Shettima held discussions with African Union Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat, focusing on democratic consolidation and peaceful cooperation across the continent. Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s interest in hosting the African Central Bank, asserting that Africa is prepared to take on such a crucial responsibility.
Chairperson Mahamat expressed his appreciation for Nigeria’s ongoing efforts in maintaining peace and stability within Africa, affirming that the African Union remains committed to prioritizing the continent’s security and development.
