BREAKING NEWS: Tinubu Demands Two Permanent UN Security Council Seats for Africa, Including Veto Power

Tinubu Demands Two Permanent UN Security Council Seats for Africa, Including Veto Power

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has renewed Nigeria’s call for comprehensive reform of the United Nations Security Council, demanding at least two permanent seats for Africa with veto powers.

Tinubu made the demand on Thursday during the General Debate of the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Nigerian President’s address was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima on his behalf.

The President also called for five non-permanent seats for Africa, arguing that the current composition of the Security Council does not adequately reflect contemporary global realities.

According to Tinubu, meaningful reform of the United Nations must begin with restructuring the Security Council, noting that Africa should not continue to play a major role in international peace and security while remaining without permanent representation on the Council.

He said Nigeria’s position was consistent with the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, which form part of Africa’s common position on Security Council reform.

“The world of 2026 cannot remain captive to the distribution of power in 1945,” Tinubu said.

He further stated that Nigeria was prepared to assume greater responsibilities in promoting international peace and security, pointing to the country’s longstanding involvement in peacekeeping and mediation efforts across the continent.

Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to peace efforts in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali and The Gambia, as well as its continuing involvement in mediation, democratic governance, counter-terrorism and maritime security through organisations and regional partnerships including ECOWAS, the African Union and the Gulf of Guinea framework.

The demand comes amid broader calls within the United Nations for Security Council reform and greater African representation. UN Secretary-General António Guterres has also highlighted the absence of permanent African representation as part of the long-running debate over reforming the Council.