President Bola Tinubu while delivering his speech at the 79th United Nations General Assembly Debate, drew the attention of world leaders to 21 issues.
Represented by the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, President Tinubu reminded the world leaders of the urgency of ensuring poverty is addressed across the world. He also advised leaders to work towards addressing terrorism, armed conflict, inequality, and climate change among others.
As compiled by Shettima’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, below are the 21 issues Nigeria presented to the world leaders.
1. The UN faces questions about its relevance and resilience in addressing global challenges.
2. The pillars of peace, sustainable development, and human rights are threatened by individual national priorities over collective needs.
3. Ongoing global challenges include terrorism, armed conflict, inequality, poverty, food crises, climate change, and others.
4. Nigeria celebrated 25 years of unbroken democratic rule, but unconstitutional changes of government in some African countries underscore democracy’s fragility.
5. The global debt burden undermines countries’ ability to meet citizens’ needs, while trade barriers and protectionist policies hinder prosperity.
6. Terrorism and violent extremism remain significant threats to peace and development.
7. Climate change is driving insecurity and poses challenges to sustainable development.
8. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict was highlighted, with a call for a two-state solution.
9. Nigeria supports UN Peacekeeping Operations and calls for support to operationalize the African Standby Force.
10. Reform of the UN Security Council is critical, with Africa deserving permanent representation.
11. Most developing countries are behind in achieving Sustainable Development Goals due to lack of resources and unsustainable external debt.
12. Nigeria calls for reform of the international financial architecture and promotion of a fair and inclusive multilateral trading system for developing countries.
13. The international community must strengthen cooperation to recover and return stolen assets and eradicate safe havens for illicit funds.
14. Nigeria advocates for comprehensive debt relief measures and fair international tax regimes.
15. Developing countries need debt relief and special concessions to enable sustainable development financing.
16. Natural gas is seen as central to addressing Africa’s energy challenges while transitioning to clean energy.
17. Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to climate action but emphasizes the principle of Common but Differentiated Responsibilities.
18. The digital divide between Global South and North needs to be addressed, including regulating cryptocurrency trading.
19. Nigeria emphasizes the importance of youth and women’s advancement in national development and peace.
20. The country supports the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration.
21. Nigeria reaffirms its commitment to multilateralism and active participation in the UN.
