79th UNGA: Nigeria seeks Finland’s support for UN Security Council Seat

KUNLE SANNI

Nigeria has officially sought Finland’s backing in its bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, as Vice President Kashim Shettima met with Finland’s President Alexander Stubb during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Speaking on Tuesday, Vice President Shettima emphasised Nigeria’s significance as Africa’s most populous nation and its pivotal role in promoting peace and democracy across the continent.

According to a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Shettima stressed that Nigeria’s 25 years of uninterrupted democracy and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership made the country a deserving candidate for a permanent seat on the Security Council, particularly amid calls for reform and expansion of the body.

Shettima highlighted the importance of closer cultural ties and collaboration with Finland, especially in strengthening the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and stabilising Africa as a whole. He noted Finland’s influence as a European Union and NATO member, underscoring the potential for greater partnership between the two nations.

President Stubb expressed strong support for the expansion of the UN Security Council, acknowledging the evolving global dynamics that necessitate such changes. He also reiterated Finland’s commitment to enhancing bilateral relations and development initiatives with Nigeria.

In a separate meeting with Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chairperson of the African Union (AU), Vice President Shettima advocated for deeper democratic consolidation and peaceful collaborations within Africa. He also expressed Nigeria’s interest in hosting the African Central Bank, asserting that the continent was ready for such an institution.

The AU chairperson praised Nigeria for its continued efforts in stabilising the region and assured that the AU would prioritise peace and stability across Africa.

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