Tinubu to UN: 2026 world cannot operate with 1945 power structure

President Bola Tinubu has called for a major reform of the United Nations, demanding permanent African representation on the Security Council and a restructuring of the global financial system.

Tinubu made the call in his address to the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, delivered on his behalf by Vice President Kashim Shettima on Thursday.

He said the current composition of the UN Security Council no longer reflected the realities of the modern world, insisting that Africa must have permanent representation with full rights and responsibilities, including veto power.

“The reform of this institution must begin with the reconstitution of the Security Council, for the world of 2026 cannot remain captive to the distribution of power in 1945.

“Africa cannot continue to fill the Council’s agenda while remaining absent from its permanent membership,” Tinubu said.

He called for at least two permanent seats for Africa, with veto rights for as long as the veto exists, as well as five non-permanent seats for the continent, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.

Tinubu also called for an immediate end to conflicts around the world and urged countries to return to the principles of dialogue, mutual respect, international law and collective responsibility.

He said Nigeria remained committed to the UN Charter and would continue to support diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts, particularly in Africa.