During the 80th United Nations General Assembly session on Wednesday, September 24, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu issued a compelling call for comprehensive reforms within the UN. He warned that without prompt and significant changes, the organization risks losing its influence as global affairs increasingly unfold beyond its reach. Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Tinubu at the assembly, delivering a message centered on four pivotal demands.
Foremost among these was Nigeria’s urgent appeal for permanent membership on the UN Security Council. President Tinubu stressed that the Council must evolve to mirror the current geopolitical landscape rather than remain anchored in the post-World War II framework. “Nigeria deserves a permanent seat on the Security Council as part of a broader institutional overhaul,” he declared. “The United Nations will regain its significance only when it accurately represents today’s world, not yesterday’s.”
He highlighted Nigeria’s remarkable transformation from a colonial population of 20 million to a sovereign nation exceeding 236 million people, soon to be the world’s third most populous country, boasting one of the youngest and most vibrant demographics globally.
Expressing disappointment over the sluggish progress on vital matters such as nuclear disarmament, Security Council reform, and equitable access to trade and finance, President Tinubu criticized the UN’s tendency to use diplomatic euphemisms that conceal inaction. “When discussing nuclear disarmament, the spread of small arms, Security Council reform, and fair trade and financial access, we must confront the harsh reality. These issues are blemishes on our shared humanity,” he asserted.
Drawing attention to the ongoing crises in conflict-ridden regions, he observed that the UN’s delayed responses have led some countries to question the effectiveness of multilateralism. He noted that significant global developments and influential voices are increasingly emerging outside the General Assembly’s domain.
On the subject of international disputes, President Tinubu firmly advocated for a two-state solution to the Palestinian conflict, describing it as the most honorable and sustainable path to peace. “The Palestinian people are not mere casualties in humanity’s quest for order. They are individuals of equal dignity, entitled to the freedoms and rights that many of us take for granted,” he emphasized.
Addressing global financial governance, he proposed the creation of an international judicial body to manage sovereign debt crises-an “International Court of Justice for financial matters.” This institution would empower developing nations to break free from economic dependency and move beyond exporting raw materials. He underscored that debt relief should be pursued as a foundation for peace and prosperity, not as an act of charity.
President Tinubu also underscored Africa’s vast mineral resources as essential to global stability. He called for increased investment in local processing industries and equitable partnerships across the continent to diversify supply chains, ease international tensions, and “forge a framework for peace and prosperity.” Echoing the UN Secretary-General’s vision, he insisted that “A.I. must mean Africa Included,” advocating for broader access and dialogue to bridge gaps in wealth and knowledge.
On combating terrorism, he highlighted the importance of addressing the ideological roots of extremism. “While military strategies may secure victories over months or years, in conflicts spanning generations, it is the power of values and ideas that ultimately prevails,” he remarked.
Concluding his address, President Tinubu made a heartfelt plea for renewed dedication to multilateralism and the protection of human rights. “Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to peace, development, unity, multilateral cooperation, and human rights defense is absolute. None of us is truly safe until all of us are safe,” he affirmed.
“We must enact meaningful reforms-reforms that deliver tangible results and are visibly effective. Failure to do so will lead us down a predictable and perilous path.”
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