President Bola Tinubu has called for an overhaul of the United Nations Security Council, saying the global body’s power structure must reflect the realities of 2026 rather than those of 1945.
President Tinubu made the call in his address delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima during the General Debate of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York on Thursday.
He demanded at least two permanent seats for Africa, with full rights and responsibilities, including veto power for as long as the veto remains, as well as five non-permanent seats for the continent.
“The reform of this institution must begin with the reconstitution of the Security Council, for the world of 2026 cannot remain captive to the distribution of power in 1945,” Tinubu said.
“Africa cannot continue to fill the Council’s agenda while remaining absent from its permanent membership.”
The demand aligns with the African Union’s Common African Position, set out in the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, which calls for at least two permanent African seats and five non-permanent seats.
The President also called for an end to conflicts and urged world leaders to return to diplomacy, international law, and the principles of the UN Charter.
He said Nigeria remained committed to peacekeeping and conflict resolution across Africa, citing its roles in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali, and The Gambia.
President Tinubu also urged stronger global action on climate change, greater access to climate finance and technology for developing countries, and reforms to the international financial system to address debt and development financing challenges.
On security, he warned that terrorism and cyberattacks cannot be tackled through military action alone, arguing that education, economic opportunity, accountable governance, and respect for human rights are also necessary.
He further reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the Paris Agreement and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 under its Energy Transition Plan.
On technology, President Tinubu said Nigeria would continue expanding digital infrastructure, broadband access, and technology entrepreneurship while harnessing artificial intelligence for development.
He said a reformed and inclusive United Nations remained essential to addressing global conflicts and building a more peaceful and sustainable world.
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