By Peter Omopo
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reiterated its support for a two-state solution as the only viable path to lasting peace between Israel and Palestine, while calling for urgent reforms to strengthen the United Nations (UN) as it marks its 80th anniversary.
Speaking at a commemorative event in Abuja on Friday, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dunoma Umar, emphasized that the global body must evolve to address the challenges of the 21st century and uphold the principles of justice, equality, and multilateral cooperation.
Represented by the Chief of Protocol at the ministry, Wahab Akande, Umar said the UN’s anniversary should not merely evoke nostalgia but serve as a moment of reflection and renewal.
“This anniversary of the UN must not be a sentimental retreat into nostalgia. It must be a moment of truth, an opportunity to examine where we have stumbled and how we could have done better in turning our values into actions that meet the demands of today,” he said.
Nigeria Calls for UN Reform and African Representation
Umar reaffirmed Nigeria’s long-standing call for comprehensive UN reform, including the expansion of the Security Council to reflect current global realities. He argued that Africa deserves permanent representation on the council to ensure fairness and credibility in the multilateral system.
“Our demand for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council is not about privilege; it is about fairness and continental equitable representation,” Umar stated. “It is also about reform that projects credibility to the very institution upon which the hope of multilateralism rests.”
The Permanent Secretary said Nigeria supports the Secretary-General’s UN80 Initiative and the July 18 resolution aimed at reforming the organization for greater efficiency and effectiveness.
“The United Nations will discover its true relevance only when it sees the world as it is, not as it was,” he added.
Nigeria’s Contributions to Global Peace
Highlighting the country’s record in peacekeeping operations, Umar disclosed that Nigeria has participated in 51 out of 60 UN peacekeeping missions since independence, describing the nation’s troops and civilian peacekeepers as “living legends.”
He emphasized that Nigeria remains deeply committed to the promotion of peace, human rights, and global solidarity.
“None of us can achieve a peaceful world in isolation. Sovereignty is a covenant of shared responsibility — a recognition that our survival is tied to the survival of others,” he said.
Position on Global Conflicts and Middle East Crisis
Addressing ongoing international conflicts, Umar reaffirmed Nigeria’s position on the Israel–Palestine crisis, calling for an end to violence and renewed diplomatic efforts toward peace.
“We do not believe that the sanctity of human life should be trapped in the corridors of endless debate. Nigeria, like the rest of the world, stands firm that a two-state solution remains the only path to lasting peace for Israel and Palestine,” he declared.
He also underscored the importance of values-driven leadership in resolving conflicts globally and domestically, stating that “military tactics may win battles measured in months or years, but in wars that span generations, it is values and ideas that deliver the ultimate victory.”
Economic Reforms and Global Cooperation
On Nigeria’s domestic front, Umar outlined the government’s ongoing economic reforms, including the removal of subsidies and currency controls, describing them as necessary steps toward long-term stability and growth.
He appealed to global partners for debt relief, fairer trade systems, and increased investment in Africa’s natural resources to promote peace and sustainable development.
“We need urgent action to promote debt relief—not as an act of charity but as a path to shared peace and prosperity,” he urged.
He added that Africa’s rich endowment in critical minerals could drive global technological innovation if the continent receives the right investments.
“Investment in Africa’s exploration and processing of critical minerals will diversify supply chains, reduce tensions between major economies, and shape a new architecture for global peace and economic emancipation,” Umar said.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s Global Role
The Permanent Secretary reaffirmed that Nigeria will continue to play a constructive role in global diplomacy, advocating for peace, justice, and inclusive development under the UN framework.
“At 80, the United Nations must renew its moral and institutional strength. Nigeria remains steadfast in its commitment to peace, development, and the defence of human rights — both at home and abroad,” Umar concluded.
