Nigeria: Stewarding the Hope of a Continent

Nigeria is positioning itself as a beacon of hope for Africa's quest to secure a more equitable and representative United Nations. In September, Vice President Kashim Shettima delivered a powerful speech at the 81st UN General Assembly, advocating for Africa to gain permanent representation on the UN Security Council, including veto power for its members.

Shettima called for a comprehensive reform of the UN, emphasizing that the world in 2026 cannot remain bound by the power distribution of 1945. He demanded at least two permanent seats for Africa, along with the full rights and responsibilities of permanent membership, including the veto, and five non-permanent seats. This message, which Shettima has carried three times to the UN, received support from African leaders at the 81st session, which focused on restoring trust and managing transformation in the UN.

The push for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council is becoming increasingly urgent, given conflicts in Africa and global geopolitical tensions. Oxfam noted that 80% of UN Security Council resolutions in the past decade focused on African situations. The United States hinted at support for reform under President Biden, but the reform effort faces challenges in a geopolitical environment where hard power is increasingly prioritized.

However, Nigeria's vast soft power, including diplomatic influence, cultural reach, and historical peacekeeping efforts, can be harnessed to rally African nations behind the UN reform quest.