New york: President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, addressed the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, calling for urgent reforms to better address global challenges.

According to News Agency of Nigeria, the President emphasized the necessity of multilateral cooperation, stressing that the assembly’s anniversary should not be a nostalgic reflection but a critical moment to assess past failures and implement actionable solutions. He highlighted the need for the UN to evolve beyond its original framework established in 1945, to remain relevant and effective in tackling modern issues such as technology, climate change, and migration.

President Tinubu proposed four key points for reform: granting Nigeria a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, promoting sovereign debt relief and equitable trade access, ensuring countries benefit fairly from their natural resources, and bridging the digital divide. He argued that these reforms are vital for maintaining global peace, development, and the protection of human rights.

In his speech, President Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s historical commitment to peacekeeping and regional security, underscoring its role in 51 of the 60 United Nations peacekeeping missions since independence. He called for a renewed focus on multilateral efforts to address conflicts and emphasized the importance of military and ideological strategies against violent extremism.

The President also addressed pressing international issues, advocating for a two-state solution in Palestine to achieve lasting peace. He urged the UN to focus on education, resilient housing, and technology access to combat climate change and promote sustainable development, describing these efforts as integral to national and international security.

President Tinubu concluded by affirming Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and the defense of human rights, stressing that the safety and prosperity of one nation are inextricably linked to that of others. He called for bold action in the pursuit of these ideals, reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to the goals and principles of the United Nations.