Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has urged the United Nations Security Council to intensify efforts towards the complete elimination of nuclear weapons and take stronger action against their spread. This was conveyed by Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, during a high-level plenary of the UN General Assembly in New York. The meeting marked the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. Tinubu emphasized that Nigeria's national security does not depend on nuclear weapons.
According to Ambassador Ibrahim, the complete elimination of nuclear weapons remains the United Nations' highest disarmament priority. He stated that Nigeria opposes the production and proliferation of nuclear weapons, describing those involved in or supporting their development as "enemies of democracy." Ibrahim stressed the importance of upholding Article 6 of the UN Charter on disarmament and Article 2(4), which prohibits the threat or use of force against the territorial integrity or political independence of any state.
The Nigerian envoy noted that there are approximately 12,187 nuclear warheads estimated to exist globally, but Nigeria is not among the states that possess them. He conveyed Tinubu's commendation to African leaders for their efforts to keep the continent free from nuclear weapons testing and the production of weapons of mass destruction. Ibrahim recalled the devastating human consequences of nuclear warfare, citing the huge loss of lives during the two atomic bombings in the Second World War.
Ambassador Ibrahim urged countries to comply strictly with the provisions of the UN Charter, which would contribute to global peace and reduce the perceived need for countries to develop or proliferate weapons of mass destruction. He emphasized that the international community can no longer afford actions that worsen geopolitical tensions and stressed the need for a renewed commitment to peace and stability.
The UN General Assembly meeting aimed to increase global awareness of the dangers posed by nuclear weapons and strengthen international efforts towards achieving a world free of nuclear weapons. Ibrahim reiterated Nigeria's commitment to the ideals of a nuclear-free world and encouraged other nations to join in the efforts to eliminate nuclear weapons.
President Tinubu's call to action is part of Nigeria's consistent stance on the elimination of nuclear weapons. The country has been actively involved in international efforts to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. By urging the UN Security Council to take stronger action, Tinubu aims to contribute to a safer and more peaceful global environment.
The International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons serves as a reminder of the catastrophic consequences of nuclear warfare. As the international community continues to grapple with the challenges of nuclear proliferation, Nigeria's call for stronger action and commitment to peace and stability resonates with the global effort to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons.
Key points
- Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu calls on UN Security Council to take stronger action against nuclear weapons proliferation.
- The complete elimination of nuclear weapons remains the United Nations' highest disarmament priority.
- Nigeria has commended African leaders for their efforts to keep the continent free from nuclear weapons testing and production.
