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President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China, said Africa is blessed with vast opportunity and a youthful population.
The President of Nigeria said the country under his administration, has been leading efforts at restoring peace in troubled West African nations. He added that Nigeria has also contributed in great measure to the development of Africa and West Africa region.
The full text of President Tinubu’s speech was released by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, on Thursday. Read it below.
1. It is a great honour to address this distinguished gathering at the FOCAC High-Level Segment on Peace and Security, held under the theme, “Jointly Building a Shared Future of Lasting Peace and Universal Security as a Solid Support for Modernization.”
2. In today’s complex global landscape, we face profound challenges—ranging from food and energy insecurity to climate change, humanitarian crises, and armed conflicts. In such a context, peace and security are responsibilities that rest not just with governments but with all stakeholders, including individuals and the private sector. Despite extensive efforts, understanding and addressing the deep-rooted causes of conflict remain daunting in our pursuit of sustainable peace.
3. Lasting global peace is multifaceted, requiring us to acknowledge that peace is not simply the absence of war but the presence of justice, equity, well-being, and human security. To build enduring peace, we must resolve the underlying drivers of conflict—poverty, inequality, discrimination, social injustice, and the lack of access to essential resources and opportunities within and across nations.
4. The global order has evolved beyond an era dominated by unilateralism and protectionism. The world now demands cooperative partnerships based on mutual respect, inclusiveness, diverse beliefs and cultures, and fairness. These values are essential for addressing the root causes of conflict and laying the foundation for global peace, security, and prosperity.
5. China has emerged as a strong global peace and security proponent, fostering cooperation based on equality and justice through diplomatic efforts, conflict resolution, and multilateral cooperation. China’s initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and FOCAC, have been instrumental in advancing Africa’s infrastructure and deepening the economic ties between China and Africa. The success of FOCAC demonstrates the transformative power of collaborative partnerships. I am confident that, through enhanced mutual trust and strategic alliances, even greater achievements are within our reach.
6. As the current Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Nigeria is committed to fostering a shared future built on collaboration. Our leadership within ECOWAS reflects Nigeria’s dedication to promoting peace, prosperity, and democratic governance, contributing to the economic development and stability of the sub-region.
7. Nigeria has played a pivotal role in ECOWAS’s evolution, transitioning from an economic bloc to a security framework for West Africa. Nigeria’s leadership has been critical in developing conflict prevention, management, and resolution mechanisms. ECOWAS remains deeply committed to upholding democracy, combating terrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging in peacekeeping, diplomacy, and mediation.
8. Nigeria’s approach to fostering peace and stability in West Africa is comprehensive, combining military intervention, diplomatic engagement, dialogue, negotiation, and economic collaboration. While challenges remain, Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to peacebuilding has solidified its position as a cornerstone of regional stability. We will continue strengthening our efforts to support a more secure and prosperous West Africa.
9. The African Union (AU) has also consistently advocated for global peace, working towards realizing its vision for ‘A Peaceful and Secure Africa,’ as articulated in Agenda 2063. The AU’s “Silencing the Guns” initiative has been pivotal in restoring peace across the continent, reinforcing the call for global peace and a future shaped by multilateralism, fairness, and cooperation.
10. As the world searches for new ways to address peace and security challenges, it is urgent to rethink global governance and economic development approaches. Embracing multilateralism, rejecting protectionism, and strengthening cooperative partnerships are essential to achieving lasting peace and security for present and future generations.
11. In closing, I sincerely thank the People’s Republic of China for its unwavering commitment to building a shared future for advancing humanity.
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