President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has called for a comprehensive reform of the United Nations, emphasizing the need for permanent African representation on the Security Council. Speaking at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York on September 24, 2026, Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, stressed that Africa cannot continue to be absent from the Council's permanent membership. He demanded at least two permanent seats for Africa, with all the rights and responsibilities of permanent membership, including veto power.
Tinubu's address to the General Debate highlighted several pressing global issues, including conflicts, climate change, artificial intelligence, international financing, terrorism, and the African Continental Free Trade Area. He emphasized Nigeria's commitment to diplomacy, international law, and peaceful settlement of disputes. The President also urged the United Nations to strengthen peacekeeping, peacebuilding, mediation, and sustainable development. Furthermore, he commended the Secretary-General, António Guterres, for steering the UN through challenging times.
The Nigerian President's call for UN reform is in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which advocate for African representation on the Security Council. Tinubu argued that the world of 2026 cannot remain captive to the distribution of power in 1945 and that Africa's presence on the Council is essential for effective global governance. He also highlighted Nigeria's contributions to international peace and security, including its involvement in peacekeeping missions in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali, and The Gambia.
Tinubu's address also touched on Nigeria's economic reforms and its commitment to sustainable development. He stated that the country's foreign policy is guided by the same conviction that underpins its economic reforms, which aim to promote sound macroeconomic management, stronger institutions, private-sector development, and strategic public investment. The President emphasized that Nigeria's national advancement is linked to its continent's progress and its responsibility to contribute to a peaceful, equitable, and prosperous world.
The issue of climate change was also a major focus of Tinubu's address. He rejected the false choice between development and climate action, arguing that developing countries must industrialize, eradicate poverty, and expand energy access through low-carbon pathways. Tinubu emphasized that Africa contributes less than 4% of greenhouse gas emissions but bears disproportionate consequences of climate change. Nigeria, he said, remains committed to the Paris Agreement and an equitable energy transition.
Tinubu also addressed the issue of artificial intelligence, stating that its development and deployment must be guided by a commitment to humanity's advancement rather than destruction. He noted that Nigeria is investing in digital public infrastructure, broadband connectivity, innovation ecosystems, research institutions, and technology entrepreneurship. The President invited the international community to work with Nigeria's young people to direct AI towards beneficial uses.
In conclusion, Tinubu's address to the 81st UNGA emphasized the need for UN reform, permanent African representation on the Security Council, and collective action on global challenges. He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to diplomacy, international law, and sustainable development. The President's call for reform and cooperation reflects Nigeria's desire to contribute to a more equitable and peaceful world.
Key points
- President Tinubu calls for at least two permanent seats for Africa on the UN Security Council.
- Nigeria emphasizes its commitment to diplomacy, international law, and peaceful settlement of disputes.
- The President highlights the need for collective action on global challenges, including climate change and artificial intelligence.
