Tinubu backs Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty at G20 Summit
By Kunle Sanni
President Bola Tinubu has endorsed the launch of the Global Alliance Against Hunger and Poverty, an initiative spearheaded by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva. Tinubu described the initiative as a pivotal step in addressing global inequality.
Speaking at the opening session of the 19th G20 Leaders’ Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Tinubu praised the Alliance for its holistic approach to tackling hunger and poverty, emphasizing its reliance on collaboration among governments, international organizations, and civil society.
“This bold and visionary step underscores Brazil’s leadership in tackling one of the most urgent challenges facing the world today. The creation of this Alliance sends a powerful message of solidarity to vulnerable populations across the globe,” Tinubu stated.
The Nigerian president also highlighted the alignment of the initiative with his administration’s economic development priorities, expressing Nigeria’s readiness to adopt international best practices to strengthen its fight against hunger and poverty.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, the president reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (eradicating poverty) and SDG 2 (achieving zero hunger).
“These goals are central to Nigeria’s development agenda. By collaborating with international partners, we aim to leverage innovative solutions, financial support, and global best practices to combat poverty and hunger effectively,” Tinubu said.
Tinubu used the platform to advocate for reforms to the United Nations Security Council, calling for a more inclusive structure that reflects global diversity. He stressed the need for two permanent seats for Africa and reiterated Nigeria’s willingness to represent the continent.
“The Security Council must expand its membership to better reflect the world’s plurality. Africa deserves priority in this process, and Nigeria stands ready to serve in this capacity,” Tinubu asserted.
President Tinubu also called for a fairer international tax system, particularly for developing nations. He urged the G20 to address systemic imbalances that disadvantage the Global South, especially in taxing digital economies.
“Nigeria and other African nations have called for a framework Convention on Tax at the United Nations to establish a more equitable global tax system. Multilateral institutions must be revamped to bridge the gap between the Global North and South,” he said.
Tinubu commended the G20’s decision to admit the African Union as a permanent member, describing it as a step toward more inclusive global governance.
President Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to achieving the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals through active participation in the G20. He stressed the importance of international cooperation to address shared global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
The president’s remarks were delivered on his behalf by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar.
