President Bola Tinubu has made a passionate plea to world leaders at the 79th United Nations General Assembly in New York, calling for debt forgiveness for Nigeria and other developing countries.
Represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, Tinubu emphasized that countries in the global South cannot achieve meaningful economic progress without special concessions and a review of their current debt burden.
“Countries of the global South cannot make meaningful economic progress without special concessions and a review of their current debt burden,” Tinubu said.
He stressed the need for reforms in the international financial system, highlighting the financial challenges facing developing countries.
Tinubu also emphasized the importance of a fair and transparent trading system, calling for changes to help economies grow.
Additionally, he pointed out that global debt burdens make it difficult for governments to meet their citizens’ needs, stating that “comprehensive debt relief measures” are essential for sustainable development.
The President addressed the issue of corruption, calling for the recovery of stolen funds and illicit financial flows from developing countries.
“We must promote practical measures to return stolen assets and ensure accountability,” he urged.
Tinubu further emphasized the need for multilateralism, saying cooperation between countries is crucial for solving global problems like terrorism, climate change, poverty, and economic inequality.
“Nationalism will not solve these problems; we must work together,” he warned.
On insecurity, Tinubu spoke about the rise of terrorism and violent extremism in Nigeria and other regions, describing them as serious threats to peace and development.
He called for global cooperation to tackle these issues, noting that the “Abuja Declaration” from a recent African Counter-Terrorism Meeting could provide solutions.
The President expressed concern over the devastating floods in Nigeria, urging the international community to follow through on commitments made at past climate conferences. “Climate change is real, and its impacts are devastating,” he said.
Finally, Tinubu pushed for reforms in the United Nations Security Council, advocating for permanent seats for Nigeria and other African countries. “It is time for the UN to reflect the diversity of the world. Africa must be accorded the respect that it deserves in the Security Council,” he stated.
Through his address, Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and the need for international cooperation to address the pressing challenges faced by developing nations.
