Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu delivered his first speech at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Wednesday, urging the global community to give Africa a fair chance in international politics.
Tinubu, who assumed office in May after defeating incumbent Muhammadu Buhari in a historic election, outlined five priorities for Africa: development, democracy, security, cooperation and climate change.
He said Africa was not a problem to be avoided or pitied, but a continent with immense potential and opportunities.
“Africa is nothing less than the key to the world’s future,” he said.
Tinubu praised the African Union (AU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) for their efforts to promote peace and stability in the region, especially in the face of recent military coups in Niger and Gabon.
He also condemned the foreign interference and exploitation of Africa’s natural resources, which he said fuelled violence and instability.
He called for more direct investment, debt relief and fair trade from the international community, as well as support for the continent’s fight against violent extremism and climate change.
Tinubu said Nigeria was committed to implementing economic and political reforms to create jobs and improve the lives of its people.
He also said Nigeria was open for business and partnership with those who respected its sovereignty and dignity.
“As for Africa, we seek to be neither appendage nor patron. We do not wish to replace old shackles with new ones. Instead, we hope to walk the rich African soil and live under the magnificent African sky free of the wrongs of the past and clear of their associated encumbrances. We desire a prosperous, vibrant democratic living space for our people,” he said.
Tinubu’s speech was well received by many African leaders and diplomats, who applauded his vision and leadership.
His address was part of the 78th UNGA, which has the theme of “Rebuilding trust and reigniting global solidarity”.
Other speakers at the event included UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, and US President Joe Biden.
The UNGA is the main policy-making and representative organ of the UN, where all member states have equal representation and voice.
It is also a platform for world leaders to address global issues and challenges, and to seek solutions and cooperation.
Tinubu said he hoped his speech would inspire more dialogue and action to make the world a better place for all.
“To the rest of the world, I say walk with us as true friends and partners. Together, we can build a more peaceful, prosperous, progressive and sustainable world for all,” he said.
Source: Punch
