The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has called on Nigeria to take the lead in Africa’s push for a reformed global order, saying the country is strategically placed to guide the continent toward greater influence on the world stage.
Guterres made the remarks during a high-level bilateral meeting with Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, held on the sidelines of the African Union 39th Assembly in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Details of the discussion were released in a statement signed by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President.
According to the UN chief, Nigeria’s strengths place it in a unique leadership position.
“Given Nigeria’s demographic strength, democratic continuity and deep resource base, the country stands a real chance of leading Africa to becoming the next superpower in the evolving global architecture,” Guterres stated.
He highlighted Nigeria’s vast population, sustained democratic governance, and rich human and natural resources as key pillars supporting this potential.
Guterres also praised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for its bold economic reforms and Nigeria’s stabilising role in the Sahel region and within ECOWAS, despite internal security challenges.
“Nigeria’s bold economic restructuring and security commitments have strengthened its continental standing,” he noted.
Vice President Shettima expressed appreciation for the Secretary-General’s leadership in fostering global peace and supporting Africa, even as the UN undergoes internal reforms.
“We remain committed to multilateralism and to deepening our partnerships with the United Nations and other global institutions,” Shettima said.
The Vice President also restated Nigeria’s longstanding advocacy for comprehensive reforms within the UN system, particularly in global decision-making structures.
He stressed that Africa must have stronger representation and insisted that “Nigeria deserves a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council.”
Both Guterres and Shettima pledged to strengthen cooperation, with the UN Secretary-General reaffirming support for Nigeria’s reform agenda and its rising leadership role in promoting peace, security, and development across Africa.
Nkwocha added that Shettima is participating in the plenary of the AU’s 39th Ordinary Session alongside African leaders and representatives from partner nations, including Italy and the Palestinian state.
