Nigeria’ll back UN secretary-general candidate committed to Africa’s aspirations — Shettima

Nigeria will support a candidate for the position of United Nations Secretary-General who is committed to equity, justice, fairness and Africa’s aspirations in global affairs, Vice-President Kashim Shettima has said.

Shettima spoke in New York during a meeting with Costa Rican candidate for the UN Secretary-General position, Rebeca Grynspan, shortly before returning to Nigeria after representing President Bola Tinubu at the 81st session of the UN General Assembly.

The Vice-President said Nigeria would consider its historical and diplomatic relations with Latin America, gender inclusion, conflict prevention and commitment to multilateralism in considering its position on the race.

“Thank you for seeking Nigeria’s perspective for your candidature of the United Nations Secretary-General. Nigeria and Costa Rica share a common historical background connecting both countries and their regions.

“We also have a cordial relationship with Latin America, and we do not wish to jeopardise it. Beyond our historical ties and relations rest our interest in conflict prevention, multilateralism, and the peace of our nations,” he said.

Shettima also called for reforms to the global governance architecture, saying the structure established in 1945 had changed significantly but had yet to adequately reflect Africa’s growing population and interests.

He said Nigeria would support a candidate who would advance Africa’s aspirations, particularly its quest for representation in key global decision-making institutions.

Grynspan, who sought Nigeria’s support for her candidature, said she was prepared to lead reforms at the UN in response to demands from countries, particularly those in the Global South.