UN Chief Urges Nigeria to Lead Africa’s Global Rise
By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has urged Nigeria to spearhead Africa’s push for a restructured global order.
Meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, he noted that, “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 praised President Tinubu’s economic reforms and Nigeria’s stabilizing role within the Sahel and ECOWAS regions. He emphasized that the nation’s strategic advantages and democratic stability are vital for shaping the future of global governance and ensuring Africa’s voice is heard.
Vice President Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism while renewing the demand for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.
He argued that the international system must be reformed to reflect Africa’s growing importance and modern geopolitical realities.
The leaders pledged to deepen UN-Nigeria collaboration on peace, sustainable development, and humanitarian response. They agreed that a stronger, more influential Nigeria is essential for a balanced global order that serves the interests of all developing nations.
Guterres concluded by reaffirming the UN’s full support for Nigeria’s leadership role across the continent. He maintained that Nigeria’s success is central to Africa’s broader transformation and its emergence as a dominant force in the 21st century.
