ADDIS ABABA — Nigeria has formally endorsed the African Union’s proposed institutional reforms, focusing on peace and security governance, democratic consolidation, and enhanced cooperation with international financial institutions and the private sector.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, presented Nigeria’s position during a closed session of the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Nigeria also supported restructuring proposals aimed at improving domestic and regional resource mobilisation for affordable development financing, alongside a continental framework to reduce inequality through credible data, social protection, productive jobs, and inclusive industrial policies.
On maritime security and transnational crime, Shettima commended the AU Peace and Security Council for endorsing the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea as a standby force, pledging Nigeria’s full support. “As the host of the headquarters of this taskforce, Nigeria will provide infrastructure, ships, helicopters, and temporary staff to ensure its effectiveness,” he said.
Regarding the Peace and Security Council membership criteria, Shettima supported eligibility clauses and stronger coordination with regional economic communities and the C-10 Committee on UN Security Council reform.
On democracy, Nigeria backed reforms to strengthen continental democratic institutions and welcomed the lifting of AU suspensions on Gabon and Guinea following the completion of their political transitions. “We call on other countries with protracted political transitions to follow this approach,” Shettima said.
Shettima also emphasised Africa’s mineral wealth as a driver for industrialisation and structural transformation, advocating local processing, manufacturing, and technology development. He supported regular briefings by African mining ministers, private sector participation in agriculture, and food systems transformation, especially for smallholder farmers, women, and youth.
Nigeria’s endorsement underscores its commitment to AU reforms aimed at sustainable development, security, and continental integration.
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