UNGA 81: Tinubu Demands Urgent Reform of UN Security Council

President Bola Tinubu has called for urgent reform of the United Nations Security Council, arguing that the current structure no longer reflects the realities of the modern world.

Tinubu made the call in Nigeria’s national statement at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, delivered on his behalf by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

The President said reform of the United Nations must begin with the restructuring of the Security Council, stressing that the global distribution of power has changed significantly since the institution was established in 1945.

He argued that Africa could no longer remain without permanent representation on the Council while continuing to contribute to international peace and security efforts.

Tinubu called for at least two permanent seats for Africa, with the full rights and responsibilities attached to permanent membership, including veto powers for as long as the veto remains part of the Council’s structure.

He also demanded five non-permanent seats for Africa, citing the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration as the basis for the continent’s position on Security Council reform.

According to the President, greater representation would help make the United Nations more inclusive and responsive to the interests of countries and regions that have historically had limited influence over the Council’s permanent membership.

He also highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to international peace and security, citing the country’s involvement in peacekeeping and regional stabilisation efforts in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali and The Gambia.

Tinubu said Nigeria had consistently committed personnel and resources when international solidarity was required and remained prepared to assume greater responsibility in promoting peace.

He also pointed to Nigeria’s role through the Economic Community of West African States, the African Union and Gulf of Guinea partnerships in areas including mediation, democratic governance, counter-terrorism and maritime security.

The President linked the call for Security Council reform to broader efforts to strengthen multilateralism and restore confidence in international institutions.

He maintained that a reformed, inclusive and effective United Nations was essential to addressing conflicts, development challenges and other global issues confronting present and future generations.