Shettima Leads Nigeria’s Push for UN Security Council Reform
Nigeria’s push for permanent African representation on the United Nations Security Council will take centre stage as Vice-President Kashim Shettima leads the country’s engagements at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York. Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, briefed Shettima on the country’s priorities, including broader reforms of the multilateral system, stronger development outcomes for developing nations and efforts to attract international investment into Nigeria. The briefing, disclosed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice-President, reviewed Nigeria’s agenda and planned diplomatic engagements during the high-level session. Nigeria has consistently advocated reform of the Security Council, arguing that Africa remains underrepresented in a body whose permanent membership is currently held by China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The UN itself has continued intergovernmental negotiations on Security Council reform, including questions of equitable representation and expansion of membership.
Nkwocha said Shettima would present President Bola Tinubu’s positions across various high-level forums, with the Security Council campaign forming a key part of Nigeria’s diplomatic agenda. Ambassador Ibrahim said Nigeria’s participation would also focus on reforms that could make multilateral institutions more effective in delivering measurable benefits to member states and their citizens. The delegation is expected to use engagements with governments, international organisations, businesses and development partners to promote opportunities in sectors including solid minerals, energy, infrastructure, agriculture and technology. Shettima is representing President Tinubu at the General Assembly and delivered Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate on Thursday, addressing issues including peace and security, sustainable development, global financial reform, climate action and multilateral cooperation. Nigeria’s renewed call comes amid broader discussions at the UN on making the Security Council more representative of contemporary geopolitical realities and addressing Africa’s longstanding underrepresentation.
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