The Democratic Front (TDF) has expressed strong support for Vice President Kashim Shettima’s advocacy for a permanent seat for Nigeria on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). The vice president made this significant appeal during the recently concluded 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, sparking widespread discussions on Africa’s representation in global governance.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, the TDF Chairman, Danjuma Muhammad, emphasized that Africa’s inclusion in the Security Council is long overdue. He praised Shettima’s bold stance and the growing global attention it has generated.
“We are delighted to throw our weight behind the call by the vice president for a permanent African membership of the United Nations Security Council at the 79th UN General Assembly. This courageous call by the current administration has drawn global attention to the urgent need to redress the historical discrimination and injustice done to the continent,” Muhammad said.
Muhammad further recalled the concerted efforts of President Bola Tinubu’s administration to combat terrorism, banditry, and violent crimes that have plagued Africa. He highlighted the president’s leadership in hosting a high-powered African Counterterrorism meeting, which culminated in the Abuja Declaration of April 2024. This declaration was aimed at strengthening regional cooperation and building institutional capacity to address the evolving threats of terrorism and insecurity across the continent.
The TDF chairman commended Tinubu’s administration for aligning its vision with the objectives of the United Nations, noting that Nigeria has played a critical role in promoting peace and stability in Africa.
“The Abuja Declaration reflects Tinubu’s mindset towards fostering unity and cooperation in the region, which is in line with the mission of the United Nations. By strengthening regional institutions, Nigeria continues to lead the charge in confronting the challenges of terrorism and insecurity,” Muhammad remarked.
He added that Nigeria’s extensive contributions to UN peacekeeping operations and its sacrifices for maintaining global peace make it deserving of a permanent seat on the Security Council.
“Our support for this administration’s bid for permanent African membership of the Security Council is motivated by Nigeria’s legendary contributions to global peace. Nigeria’s role in peacekeeping missions and conflict resolution in Africa and beyond demonstrates its commitment to global security,” he added.
Muhammad concluded by urging the global community to recognize Africa’s importance in global affairs and to act swiftly to address the continent’s marginalization in key international institutions like the Security Council. He stated that Nigeria’s inclusion would not only be a victory for the country but for the entire African continent, which continues to play a pivotal role in world politics.
