The Nigerian government has voiced strong support for ongoing African Union (AU) reforms aimed at enhancing the organization’s effectiveness in addressing evolving political and economic challenges across the continent.
President Bola Tinubu, through a statement delivered by Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, commended Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Kenyan President William Ruto for their leadership in proposing key AU reforms.
Tinubu endorsed the establishment of a Heads of State and Government Oversight Committee for AU reforms under President Ruto’s leadership. Additionally, Nigeria backed the proposal to limit the AU Summit agenda to a maximum of three strategic items, streamlining discussions for greater efficiency.
However, Nigeria opposed the creation of a new department from the existing Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS), currently led by Nigerian diplomat Ambassador Bankole Adeoye. Tinubu warned that restructuring PAPS could lead to unnecessary expenses and disrupt AU’s peace and security processes.
Emphasizing the need for transparency and inclusiveness, Tinubu urged the AU to implement reforms in phases rather than attempting sweeping changes all at once. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to supporting the AU reform process as long as it remains structured and does not destabilize existing frameworks.
