Nigeria Seeks Finland’s Support for UN Security Council Seat, Shettima Advocates for African Stability at UNGA79

Nigeria has formally sought Finland’s support in its bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, a move in line with calls for reforms and expansion of the Council by several UN member states. The request was made by Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, during a meeting with the Finnish President, Alexander Stubb, on the sidelines of the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on Tuesday.

Vice President Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s longstanding democratic experience and influential role in Africa, positioning the country as a natural candidate for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.

“Nigeria has 25 years of uninterrupted democracy. And in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we have a leader with significant democratic credentials and commitment. With him in the saddle, Africa and the larger world would be safer, more futuristic, acceptable, and more peaceful,” Shettima remarked during the meeting.

Finland’s President, Alexander Stubb, expressed his country’s support for the expansion and reform of the Security Council, emphasizing the need for the UN to adapt to contemporary global challenges.

“The dictates and dynamics of the modern world demand such changes,” President Stubb said, further underscoring Finland’s eagerness to strengthen its partnership with Nigeria. Stubb noted that Finland is ready to explore new areas of collaboration with the West African nation.

In addition to his meeting with the Finnish leader, Vice President Shettima also held discussions with the African Union (AU) Chairperson, Moussa Faki Mahamat. During the talks, Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to stabilizing the continent and promoting democratic governance. He also expressed Nigeria’s interest in hosting the African Central Bank, stating that Africa is ready for such a development.

“Africa has come of age to host one,” Shettima said, signaling Nigeria’s readiness to take a leadership role in this initiative.

The AU Chairperson praised Nigeria’s efforts in fostering peace and stability across Africa. He assured the Vice President that the AU remains dedicated to prioritizing stability on the continent, acknowledging Nigeria’s significant contributions in that regard.

“Nigeria’s role in stabilizing Africa is well recognized, and we will continue to ensure that peace remains a key priority for the African Union,” Mahamat stated.

As Nigeria continues to push for reforms on the global stage, the country’s leadership hopes to leverage its political influence and democratic credentials to secure a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, positioning itself as a key player in global governance and African stability.