President Calls for Urgent Reform of Global Security Architecture, Says Africa Must Have Permanent Representation.
Enugu Media Village (EMV), the Most Updated Online News Platform | September 25, 2026.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for a major restructuring of the United Nations Security Council, demanding at least two permanent seats for Africa with full rights and responsibilities, including veto powers, if the veto system remains.
The President made the demand while presenting Nigeria’s position at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. His national statement was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima on his behalf.
President Tinubu argued that the existing structure of the Security Council reflects the global balance of power that existed in 1945 and does not adequately represent today’s geopolitical realities.
He further called for five non-permanent seats for Africa, stressing that the continent should have meaningful representation in decisions concerning international peace, security and global governance.
The President’s position aligns with the African Union’s Common African Position, as expressed through the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, which seek at least two permanent African seats and five non-permanent seats on the Security Council.
Nigeria Seeks Greater African Voice in Global Affairs
Tinubu said Africa’s contribution to international peace and security should be matched by an appropriate role in global decision-making.
He pointed to Nigeria’s longstanding contributions to peacekeeping and mediation efforts in countries including Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali and The Gambia, as well as its involvement in regional security initiatives through ECOWAS, the African Union and Gulf of Guinea partnerships.
The President also called for reforms to the international financial system, arguing that developing countries require greater access to sustainable financing to support infrastructure, economic growth, climate action and poverty reduction.
On climate change, he said developing countries should be allowed to pursue industrialisation and expand energy access while receiving the technology, capacity-building and climate finance necessary to support a sustainable transition.
Tinubu Advocates Responsible Use of Artificial Intelligence
The Nigerian leader also highlighted the growing importance of artificial intelligence, calling for its responsible deployment in areas including healthcare, education, agriculture, governance and economic productivity.
He said Nigeria is investing in digital public infrastructure, broadband connectivity, innovation ecosystems, research institutions and technology entrepreneurship, while inviting international partners to collaborate with Nigerian youths in harnessing emerging technologies for development.
Call for Stronger International Cooperation on Security
On global security, Tinubu called for stronger international cooperation against terrorism, organised crime, cyberattacks and illicit financial flows.
He noted that Nigeria’s experience in combating Boko Haram, ISWAP and other armed groups demonstrates the importance of combining security operations with education, economic opportunities, accountable governance and protection of citizens’ rights.
The President also urged greater diplomatic efforts to resolve ongoing conflicts, protect civilians and ensure humanitarian access in conflict-affected countries.
The demand for greater African representation comes as the issue of reforming the UN Security Council continues to receive international attention. The G4 countries — Brazil, Germany, India and Japan — recently expressed support for enhanced African representation, including permanent membership.
Nigeria’s latest position therefore places the country firmly within the wider African campaign for a more representative global governance system, with Abuja seeking a stronger institutional voice for the continent in international decision-making.
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