- Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar advocated for the continent’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos, Switzerland.
- The panel discussion was moderated by Chatham House director Bronwen Maddox
- The conversation centered on Africa’s role in global governance and the upcoming 2025 G20 summit in South Africa
In a significant move to amplify Africa’s voice on the global stage, Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar advocated for the continent’s permanent membership in the UN Security Council during a panel discussion at the World Economic Forum summit in Davos, Switzerland.
Eko Hot Blog gathered that highlighting Nigeria’s suitability as Africa’s representative, Tuggar criticized the exclusion of African nations from the council, despite nearly 60 per cent of its resolutions addressing issues impacting the continent.
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Tuggar raised concerns over the adverse effects of certain council decisions on Africa, such as the deforestation law banning goods from deforested land, without holding companies accountable for their contributions to deforestation.
The panel discussion, moderated by Chatham House director Bronwen Maddox, also featured prominent speakers, including Mohammed Nafti, Foreign Minister of Tunisia; Therese Wagner, Foreign Minister of the Democratic Republic of Congo; and Matia Kasaija, Ugandan Minister of Finance.
The conversation centered on Africa’s role in global governance and the upcoming 2025 G20 summit in South Africa, marking the first time the summit will be held on the African continent.
He outlined the country’s global outlook under President Bola Tinubu’s administration, emphasizing the principles of strategic autonomy and nonalignment in its foreign relations.
Tuggar also pointed out that the upcoming G20 summit in South Africa presents an opportunity for Nigeria to advocate for its inclusion as a member.
“Nigeria’s involvement in South Africa’s liberation struggle and its ongoing support for South Africa solidifies our ties,” Mr Tuggar noted.
The Foreign affairs Minister showcased the country’s significant contributions to African development, notably through the Technical Aid Corps, an initiative that has sent volunteer professionals to various African, Caribbean, and Pacific nations.
Tuggar emphasised that these efforts demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to promoting growth, stability, and cooperation within the region.
Further underscoring Nigeria’s non-threatening nature, Tuggar stated that the country maintains positive relations with its neighbours, ultimately strengthening its global standing.
He also drew attention to Nigeria’s unique role in the African Union’s Peace and Security Council, arguing that this influence bolsters the nation’s case for increased representation on the international stage.
Moreover, Tuggar called for developed nations to reaffirm their commitments made during the Rio Summit, particularly concerning the transfer of technology to developing countries.
The appeal emphasizes Nigeria’s dedication to fostering partnerships that facilitate equitable growth and shared progress.
Emphasizing the importance of recognizing Africa’s diversity and power, Tuggar as a continent of 54 nations rather than a single entity. He argued that Nigeria, with its sizable population and robust economy, is well-positioned to represent Africa globally.
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The country’s track record of supporting African and global causes further supports its suitability as Africa’s representative in the UNSC and other international forums.
