Nigeria Backs AU Peace and Security Reforms in Addis Ababa

Nigeria has officially endorsed the African Union's (AU) proposed reforms focused on peace and security during the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of Heads of State and Government held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. President Bola Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima represented Nigeria at this session.

Vice President Shettima submitted Nigeria's position on behalf of the Nigerian leader, addressing thematic agenda items including peace, security, and sustainable development. The agenda emphasized the need to combat transnational organized crime and enhance the continent's blue economy.

Shettima commended the AU's Peace and Security Council for endorsing a combined maritime task force for the Gulf of Guinea, which aims to provide rapid maritime security responses. He also pledged Nigeria's commitment to implementing agreements to establish a force to strengthen the AU's standby force.

The discussion highlighted the proliferation of small arms and light weapons as a significant cause of armed conflict in the region, necessitating focused attention from the AU.