Nigeria's President Muhammadu Buhari delivered a comprehensive address at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), outlining the nation's priorities for global governance, climate resilience, and technological ethics. The speech, delivered on behalf of the African continent, underscored the urgency of reforming multilateral institutions to reflect contemporary geopolitical realities while reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to sustainable development and regional security.
Buhari began by acknowledging the UNGA's role in preventing global conflicts, a mission he linked to the UN's founding principles. 'The persistence of conflict across the world recalls the purpose for which the United Nations was founded: to spare succeeding generations the devastation of war,' he stated. His remarks emphasized the need for renewed international cooperation, particularly in addressing the 'fractured world' that threatens global stability.
A central theme of the address was the demand for African representation in the UN Security Council. Nigeria, citing the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, called for at least two permanent seats for Africa, including veto power, alongside five non-permanent seats. 'Africa cannot continue to fill the Council’s agenda while remaining absent from its permanent membership,' Buhari asserted, framing the issue as a matter of equity and global governance.
The president also highlighted Nigeria's contributions to peacekeeping missions, citing deployments in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali, and The Gambia. He emphasized the nation's role in regional initiatives like ECOWAS and the African Union, stressing that 'our foreign policy rests on the same conviction that guides our economic reforms.' This alignment of security and development priorities underscored Nigeria's strategic vision for continental leadership.
Climate action was another focal point, with Buhari rejecting the 'false choice between development and climate action.' Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to the Paris Agreement, pledging to achieve net-zero emissions by 2060 through a mix of renewable energy, clean cooking, and climate-smart agriculture. 'Africa contributes less than four per cent of greenhouse gas emissions, yet bears disproportionate consequences,' he noted, calling for climate finance mechanisms that prioritize equity over charity.
The speech also addressed the ethical implications of artificial intelligence (AI), with Buhari warning against its misuse. 'An invention can be destructive or beneficial, depending on the purposes it serves,' he said, advocating for global collaboration to harness AI for healthcare, education, and economic productivity. Nigeria's investment in digital infrastructure and youth innovation was presented as a model for responsible technological advancement.
Buhari criticized the 'inadequate financing' of sustainable development, urging reforms to the international financial architecture. Nigeria called for expanded access to concessional financing, debt sustainability frameworks, and innovative mechanisms like South-South cooperation. 'Development cannot take root where violence repeatedly uproots livelihoods,' he argued, linking economic stability to peacebuilding efforts.
The address emphasized the interconnectedness of global security, citing threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and illicit finance. Buhari stressed that 'no nation can secure itself completely against dangers sustained beyond its borders,' advocating for intelligence sharing and regional partnerships. Nigeria's experience combating Boko Haram and ISWAP was cited as evidence of the need for 'enduring foundations in education, economic opportunity, and accountable governance.'
On the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), Buhari positioned it as a 'transformative opportunity' to shift the continent from raw material export to value-added manufacturing. 'Africa must move beyond its historical role as an exporter of raw materials,' he said, highlighting the potential for industrialization and technological innovation to drive shared prosperity.
The president also addressed the humanitarian crises in Sudan and other conflict zones, urging 'urgent diplomacy' to protect civilians and uphold international law. 'No claim to security can justify starving children or erasing communities from their land,' he declared, reinforcing Nigeria's stance on humanitarian principles.
Buhari concluded by reaffirming Nigeria's commitment to diplomacy over confrontation, stating that 'cooperation remains wiser than conflict.' He called for a 'reformed, inclusive, and effective United Nations' to address the 'peaceful, just, and sustainable world that future generations deserve.' The speech closed with a call for global solidarity, framing humanity as 'our oldest citizenship' and peace as 'the inheritance we owe every child.'
The address was widely interpreted as a strategic move to position Nigeria as a leader in African diplomacy and global governance. Analysts noted that the emphasis on UN reform and climate action aligned with broader regional aspirations, while the focus on AI ethics reflected growing concerns about technology's societal impact. The speech also underscored Nigeria's dual role as a peacekeeper and a developing nation navigating the complexities of global interdependence.
Buhari's remarks were delivered against the backdrop of domestic challenges, including economic instability and security threats. However, the speech framed these issues within a broader narrative of resilience and regional leadership. By linking Nigeria's national interests to global priorities, the address sought to reinforce the country's influence in multilateral forums.
The full text of the speech, published by Premium Times, provided detailed insights into Nigeria's foreign policy priorities. It highlighted the nation's historical contributions to peacekeeping and its vision for a reformed international order. The document also included specific commitments, such as Nigeria's Energy Transition Plan and its advocacy for equitable climate finance.
The speech's emphasis on Africa's representation in the UN Security Council has reignited debates about the need for structural reforms in global governance. While Nigeria's call for permanent seats is supported by many African nations, critics argue that such demands require broader consensus and institutional changes. Nonetheless, the address marked a significant step in elevating Africa's voice on the world stage.
Buhari's focus on sustainable development and technological innovation reflected Nigeria's efforts to balance economic growth with environmental stewardship. The president's advocacy for AI governance and digital infrastructure underscored the nation's recognition of technology's transformative potential, while also acknowledging its risks. This dual perspective positioned Nigeria as a proactive actor in shaping global tech policies.
The address concluded with a reaffirmation of Nigeria's commitment to multilateralism. Buhari's call for 'cooperation over confrontation' and 'hope over fear' resonated with the UNGA's broader goals of fostering global unity. The speech's emphasis on shared humanity and collective responsibility served as a reminder of the UN's foundational mission to promote peace and prosperity for all.
The full text of Nigeria's address at the 81st UNGA, as published by Premium Times, provides a comprehensive overview of the nation's priorities and aspirations. It highlights the interplay between national interests and global challenges, offering insights into Nigeria's role in shaping the future of international relations and sustainable development.