Nigeria’s Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru, has called on Nuclear-Weapon States to uphold their obligations under the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and take decisive steps toward achieving a nuclear-weapon-free world. Speaking at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Badaru stressed that nuclear weapons pose a significant threat to humanity, especially amid pressing socio-economic challenges that render their existence unjustifiable.
In a statement by the Ministry of Defence’s Director of Information and Public Relations, Henshaw Ogubike, Badaru highlighted Nigeria’s firm commitment to nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation. He also expressed the country’s appreciation for the United Nations’ efforts in advancing this agenda, reaffirming Nigeria’s support for the Non-Aligned Movement and the African Group.
The Defence Minister underscored the catastrophic humanitarian impacts of nuclear weapon use, pointing to severe consequences for health, the environment, and global economies. He reiterated Nigeria’s endorsement of the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), urging more nations to ratify the agreement.
Additionally, Badaru praised the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) for its ongoing monitoring work and reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to peaceful nuclear energy applications. He concluded by stressing the importance of staying focused on disarmament efforts, stating, “While the path to disarmament is challenging, we must remain focused and resolute. Nigeria will continue to play its part in ensuring a safer world for future generation.”