Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered a significant speech on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 78th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, marking Nigeria’s continued engagement with global issues. The speech covered a wide range of critical topics, highlighting Nigeria's priorities on the international stage, including global peace, economic cooperation, climate change, and regional security challenges, particularly within Africa.
Global Cooperation and Multilateralism: Shettima emphasized Nigeria's commitment to multilateralism and the need for countries to work together to address common challenges. He advocated for the strengthening of international cooperation through institutions like the United Nations to foster peace, stability, and sustainable development across the world. He stressed that no country can tackle modern global issues alone, particularly those affecting the developing world.
Climate Change and Sustainability: Climate change was a central focus of the Vice President’s address, as he highlighted its devastating impact on Africa, particularly Nigeria. Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to combating climate change, urging developed nations to honor their pledges in providing financial and technical support to developing countries to meet climate goals. He called for collective action to address climate challenges, especially in regions vulnerable to environmental degradation, drought, and rising sea levels. Nigeria’s efforts to transition to cleaner energy sources and the government’s plans to achieve a greener economy were also touched upon. Shettima called for investments in renewable energy projects in Africa and emphasized the need for equitable solutions to climate financing that take into account the historical emissions of developed countries.
Security and Regional Stability: Vice President Shettima highlighted the security challenges faced by Nigeria and the broader West African region, particularly the rise of terrorism, insurgency, and organized crime. He called for increased international cooperation to tackle these threats, noting that instability in one country can quickly spread across borders. Shettima called for global solidarity in combating extremism and for stronger support in addressing the root causes of insecurity, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of education.
He also drew attention to the political instability in West Africa, referencing the recent military coups in Niger, Mali, Guinea, and Burkina Faso. Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to democratic governance and constitutional order in the region, urging the international community to support efforts aimed at restoring democracy in countries affected by coups.
Economic Development and Global Trade: Shettima touched on economic development, highlighting the need for greater trade and investment opportunities for Africa. He advocated for reforms in the global financial architecture to ensure that African nations have access to fairer trade agreements and financial resources necessary for development. He stressed the importance of empowering African economies by reducing trade barriers and increasing access to international markets.
The Vice President also discussed Nigeria’s economic reforms under President Tinubu’s administration, including measures to diversify the economy and reduce the country’s reliance on oil. He spoke about Nigeria's ambitious plans for infrastructural development, technological advancement, and fostering a more favorable business environment for both local and foreign investors.
Debt Relief and Economic Justice: Nigeria reiterated the call for debt relief and restructuring for developing nations, noting that the economic burdens of the COVID-19 pandemic and rising global inflation have disproportionately impacted African countries. Shettima called for the creation of a more equitable international financial system, which would support the economic recovery and long-term development of nations facing heavy debt burdens.
Shettima’s speech underscored Nigeria’s leadership role in Africa and its efforts to promote peace, stability, and prosperity on the continent. He spoke of Nigeria’s active engagement in regional peacekeeping missions and its leadership within the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). Nigeria’s contributions to the African Union and initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) were highlighted as examples of the country’s commitment to fostering regional integration and development.
Video: Vice President Kashim Shettima’s speech he delivered at the ongoing United Nations General Assembly on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
pic.twitter.com/g04ji9bhSG
The Vice President also used the platform to advocate for reforms in the United Nations, particularly the expansion of the United Nations Security Council. Nigeria has long called for greater representation of African countries on the Security Council, arguing that the current structure does not reflect the realities of the 21st century. Shettima reiterated this demand, stating that Africa must have a greater voice in global decision-making processes.
On the issue of human rights, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to upholding global human rights standards and promoting justice for all. He emphasized the need for international cooperation in addressing human rights violations, including those resulting from conflicts and political unrest. He called for the protection of vulnerable populations, including women, children, and displaced persons, particularly in conflict-affected regions.
Vice President Kashim Shettima’s speech at the UNGA captured Nigeria’s priorities on the global stage, emphasizing cooperation, peace, and sustainable development. His address reflected Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the pressing challenges of climate change, insecurity, and economic inequality, while also calling for reforms in international governance to give Africa a more significant role in shaping global policy. As Africa’s most populous country and a leading economy on the continent, Nigeria's voice at the UNGA remains influential, with its focus on promoting African interests and global peace.
0 Comments