RismadarVoice Reporters, February 14, 2024
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called on Nigeria to take the lead in Africa’s quest for a restructured global order, describing the country as well positioned to drive the continent towards superpower status.
Guterres made the call during a high-level bilateral meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima on the sidelines of the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
He noted that Nigeria’s large population, sustained democratic governance, and vast natural and human resources place it in a strong position to lead Africa in the evolving global architecture.
The UN Chief also commended Nigeria’s ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu and its leadership role in promoting stability across the Sahel and ECOWAS regions, despite prevailing security challenges.
In his response, Vice President Shettima expressed appreciation for the UN’s continued support and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and global peace.
He also reiterated Nigeria’s call for reforms within the United Nations system, stressing that Africa deserves stronger representation in global decision-making, including a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
Both leaders pledged to strengthen cooperation between Nigeria and the United Nations to advance peace, security, and sustainable development across the continent.
Vice President Shettima is currently participating in the plenary session of the African Union Summit, alongside other African and international leaders.
