Nigeria has restated its dedication to building stronger international alliances and enhancing relationships with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbeans and Pacific States (OACPS) during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, standing in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the ongoing event, made this assertion at a high-level OACPS meeting chaired by Angola.
In a statement released on Tuesday by Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), the Vice President reiterated the importance of unity among member states in the face of various global challenges. The Vice President emphasised Nigeria’s dedication to the organisation’s goals while addressing urgent national issues.
He stated, “Nigeria continues to be a key partner of OACPS, advocating our mutual values of democracy, diaspora involvement, and progress.”
“Our presence at the UN General Assembly enables us to emphasise these priorities on the global platform and explore opportunities for deeper cooperation.”
The Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s backing for OACPS initiatives, including the organisation’s focus on Haiti’s ongoing crisis. While acknowledging Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to Haiti, he highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in South-South cooperation.
Shettima outlined Nigeria’s plan to utilise its position as Africa’s most populous nation to advocate for OACPS interests, promote equitable treatment in international financial systems, and strengthen connections with both developing and developed nations.
“We are representing Nigeria’s interests while also advocating for the collective voice of the OACPS. President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria closely aligns with the OACPS agenda. In today’s interconnected world, our success is linked with that of our partner nations,” VP Shettima emphasized.
Earlier, the Secretary-General of OACPS, Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, praised Nigeria as “a driving force of the OACPS and an important member state.”
Chikoti said that the meeting aimed to bolster cooperation with Nigeria and expressed appreciation for the country’s significant contributions. The Secretary-General expressed confidence in the UN’s involvement and commitment to supporting member states facing various challenges.
He also reiterated the significance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS member states and the European Union, focusing on vital collaborations in areas such as environment, infrastructure, education, and business development.
