5th September, 2024
President Bola Tinubu has called on global leaders to embrace multilateralism and reject protectionism as crucial steps towards achieving lasting peace, security, and stability.
Addressing a high-level meeting on peace and security at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China, on Thursday, in his capacity as Chairman of ECOWAS, President Tinubu highlighted that global challenges—ranging from food insecurity to armed conflict—require partnerships based on mutual respect, fairness, and inclusiveness.
“I thank the African Union for their consistency in advocating for global peace and working towards realizing their vision of a peaceful and secure Africa as outlined in Agenda 2063,” Tinubu said.
He praised the AU’s Silencing the Guns initiative for its role in restoring peace across Africa and reinforcing the call for global peace.
“As the world searches for new ways to establish enduring peace amidst complex security challenges, it is urgent to rethink approaches to global governance and economic development. Embracing multilateralism and rejecting protectionism, while strengthening cooperative partnerships, is essential if we are to secure lasting peace, stability, and prosperity for future generations,” the President emphasized.
President Tinubu reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace, good governance, and security across West Africa.
He commended China for its contributions to Africa’s development through initiatives like the Belt and Road and FOCAC.
He also stressed the need to address the root causes of conflicts, including poverty, inequality, and social injustice, noting that true peace is not just the absence of war but the presence of justice, equity, economic opportunity, and human security.
“Nigeria has played a pivotal role in ECOWAS’ evolution. From its transition as an economic bloc to an integrated regional security architecture, Nigeria has been at the forefront, developing mechanisms for conflict resolution and management,” Tinubu noted.
He highlighted ECOWAS’ ongoing commitment to upholding good governance, combating terrorism, providing humanitarian aid, and engaging in peacekeeping, diplomacy, and mediation.
“Nigeria’s approach to fostering peace in West Africa is comprehensive, blending military intervention, diplomatic dialogue, negotiations, and economic collaboration.”
“Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to peacebuilding has solidified its position as a cornerstone of regional stability. We will continue to strengthen our efforts to support a more secure and prosperous West Africa,” Tinubu assured.
