Nigeria has reiterated its commitment to strengthening international partnerships and enhancing relations with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) during the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the ongoing global event, made this statement 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), it was highlighted that the Vice President emphasized the importance of solidarity among member states in addressing various global challenges. He reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the organization’s goals while also addressing pressing national concerns.
He said “Nigeria remains a principal partner of OACPS, championing our shared values of democracy, diaspora engagement, and development.”
“Our presence here at the UN General Assembly allows us to amplify these priorities on the global stage and explore avenues for deeper collaboration.”
Senator Shettima used the opportunity to address Nigeria’s recent inclusion on a high-risk jurisdiction list for anti-money laundering concerns, saying “We’re here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.”
The VP reaffirmed Nigeria’s support 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.
“Our technical aid corps programme, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean, exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to uplifting fellow OACPS nations,” Vice President Shettima added.
VP Shettima outlined Nigeria’s strategy to leverage its position as Africa’s most populous nation to advocate for OACPS interests, promote fair treatment in international financial systems, and strengthen ties with both developing and developed nations.
“We’re representing Nigeria’s interests while also championing the collective voice of the OACPS. President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria aligns closely with the OACPS agenda. In today’s interconnected world, our success is intertwined with that of our partner nations,” VP Shettima emphasized.
Earlier, Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, the Secretary-General of OACPS, praised Nigeria as “a driving force of the OACPS and a key member state.”
Chikoti emphasized that the purpose of the meeting was to enhance cooperation with Nigeria and expressed appreciation for the country’s substantial contributions.
He voiced confidence in the UN’s role and dedication to assisting member states in overcoming various challenges.
Additionally, he underscored the importance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS member states and the European Union, highlighting essential collaborations in areas such as the environment, infrastructure, education, and business development.