Nigeria has thrown its weight behind sweeping institutional reforms proposed by the African Union (AU), endorsing measures aimed at strengthening peace and security governance, democratic consolidation, and cooperation with global financial institutions and the private sector.
The country also supported initiatives to boost domestic and regional resource mobilisation for affordable development financing and backed the adoption of a continental framework to tackle inequality through credible data systems, social protection, productive employment and inclusive industrial policies.
Shettima Speaks for Tinubu in Addis Ababa
Nigeria’s position was presented by Vice President Kashim Shettima on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications (Office of the Vice President), Shettima’s intervention followed deliberations on key thematic issues, including peace and security, integration and sustainable development, and Africa’s global voice.
Nigeria Backs Gulf of Guinea Maritime Force
On maritime security, the Vice President commended the AU Peace and Security Council for endorsing the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea as a standby regional force for rapid response against piracy and transnational crimes.
“As host of the headquarters of this taskforce, Nigeria will provide the necessary infrastructure including office facilities, ships, helicopters and temporary staff to ensure that the force remains effective,” Shettima pledged.
He also warned that the proliferation of small arms and light weapons remains a major driver of armed conflict and violent extremism across the region, urging renewed continental focus on curbing the trend.
Support for Peace Council Reforms, UN Coordination
Nigeria backed proposed revisions to membership criteria for the AU Peace and Security Council, including clearer eligibility guidelines and improved cooperation between the AU and regional economic communities.
Shettima further supported stronger coordination between the Council and the C-10 Committee on United Nations Security Council reform, particularly at ambassadorial level, to enhance predictability and effectiveness in Africa’s peace architecture.
Democracy and Return of Gabon, Guinea
On democratic governance, Nigeria endorsed reforms aimed at strengthening institutions across the continent and commended AU efforts against unconstitutional changes of government.
The Vice President also welcomed the reinstatement of Gabon and Guinea into the AU following the completion of their political transitions.
“Nigeria welcomes Gabon and Guinea back to our union. We call on other countries with protracted political transitions to follow this approach and return to the fold,” Shettima said.
Critical Minerals, Food Security in Focus
Reiterating Nigeria’s stance on Africa’s critical minerals, Shettima stressed that the continent’s mineral wealth must drive industrialisation through local processing, manufacturing and technology development.
He also advocated regular briefings by African mining ministers to boost transparency and accountability and expressed support for G20 “Ubuntu” approaches to food security and responsible private sector participation in agriculture.
“Nigeria calls for greater investment in storage, logistics, research, climate-resilient agriculture and support for smallholder farmers, particularly women and youth,” he added.
With its endorsement of the AU reform agenda, Nigeria signalled readiness to play a leading role in shaping Africa’s governance, security and development trajectory.