Nigeria has officially endorsed the proposed institutional reforms of the African Union (AU), backing measures aimed at enhancing peace and security governance across the continent.
The endorsement was presented on Saturday by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the closed session of the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
“Nigeria has endorsed the proposed institutional reforms in the African Union with a focus on peace and security governance, strengthening democratic institutions, and ensuring stronger cooperation with international financial institutions and the private sector,” Shettima said.
He further stressed that deepening democratic institutions and fostering collaboration with global financial bodies and the private sector is vital for Africa’s competitiveness. The restructuring proposals aim to enhance domestic and regional resource mobilisation, providing sustainable and affordable development financing.
The reforms also advocate adopting a continental framework to reduce inequality, anchored on reliable data systems, strengthened social protection mechanisms, job creation, and inclusive industrial policies.
Reinforcing governance structures within the AU, Shettima said, is crucial for tackling persistent security challenges while promoting democratic stability. He highlighted the need for resilient institutions capable of responding effectively to emerging threats and advancing economic transformation.
Shettima also emphasised stronger partnerships between African governments, international financial institutions, and the private sector as key to unlocking investment opportunities and accelerating inclusive growth.
The 39th Ordinary Session convened African leaders to discuss reforms aimed at making the AU more efficient, accountable, and development-driven, with sustainable financing and coordinated continental action as priorities. Global leaders, including United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, attended the summit.
Calls for Peace in the Horn of Africa
During the summit, Guterres addressed tensions in the Horn of Africa, warning that renewed fighting in northern Ethiopia could escalate and involve neighbouring Eritrea.
“Ethiopia and Eritrea are two neighbours with a common past struggle. My strong hope is that the two countries will reconcile and contribute to peace and stability on the continent,” Guterres said.
Eritrea, one of the world’s most closed-off nations, gained independence in 1993 after decades of armed struggle against Ethiopia. The countries later fought a 1998–2000 border war, resulting in tens of thousands of deaths. Although they cooperated against rebels from Ethiopia’s Tigray region during the 2020–2022 conflict, disputes over the peace accord—which excluded Eritrea—have strained relations.
