In a bold call for change, Nigeria’s Foreign Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, has declared the need to democratize the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) and urged for Nigeria’s rightful place within it.
Report by Special Assistant Media and Communication to the minister, Alkasim Abdulkadir, revealed that the made the appeal at a recent panel discussion in Davos, Switzerland, titled “Securing an Insecure World,” Tuggar joined high-profile leaders like NATO Secretary Jens Stoltenberg and Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud in tackling the intricate dance of global security amidst rising conflicts, climate crisis, and tech disruptions.
Tuggar argued that the current structure of the UNSC, with its exclusive permanent members and veto powers, fails to live up to its mission of maintaining global peace and security. He stressed the need to mirror democratic values like the rule of law within the world’s highest decision-making bodies.
Democratize the UNSC: Tuggar challenged the legitimacy of the current council, calling it “not fit for purpose” and advocating for the removal of veto powers, which he sees as undemocratic and hindering effective conflict resolution.
Global architecture needs an overhaul: He pointed out the influence of “undemocratic entities” on global security decisions, lamenting the loss of neutral ground for diplomacy and the increasing militarization of international relations.
Diplomacy needs a comeback: Tuggar expressed concern that security chiefs and military solutions are overshadowing diplomatic efforts in conflict resolution, leading to an overly securitized world.
Nigeria’s aspiration to join the UNSC is not new. As Africa’s most populous nation with a significant economic and strategic role, its claim draws considerable support. Tuggar’s bold voice at Davos underlines the growing chorus for an updated, more equitable, and efficient global security architecture, one that reflects the realities of the 21st century and gives due weight to diverse voices like Nigeria’s.