Abuja/Addis Ababa – February 16, 2026
Nigeria has formally endorsed proposed institutional reforms within the African Union (AU), placing strong emphasis on bolstering peace and security governance across the continent.
The endorsement was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, during the closed session of the 39th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
Nigeria’s position aligns with broader thematic discussions on peace and security, integration and sustainable development, and amplifying Africa’s global voice. The country pledged full commitment to implementing the agreed reforms, which aim to strengthen the AU’s peace and security architecture, deepen democratic institutions, and foster enhanced cooperation with international financial institutions and the private sector.
Vice President Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s support for refining membership criteria for the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC), including clearer eligibility guidelines and improved coordination between the AU and Regional Economic Communities (RECs). These changes, he noted, are essential to ensure greater predictability, effectiveness, and collaboration in managing peace and security challenges.
On regional maritime security, Nigeria commended the AU Peace and Security Council for endorsing the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea as a standby force. This initiative is designed to enable rapid, coordinated responses to threats such as piracy, transnational organized crime, and other maritime insecurities in the sub-region.
The reforms also extend to resource mobilization efforts, including boosting domestic and regional financing for development, adopting a continental framework to reduce inequality through credible data systems, social protection, productive employment, and inclusive industrial policies.
Nigeria’s endorsement underscores its ongoing leadership role in advancing continental stability, democratic consolidation, and collective security. The move comes amid broader AU efforts to address persistent challenges, including conflict prevention, crisis management, and alignment with Agenda 2063 goals.
This development reflects Nigeria’s consistent advocacy for a more robust and responsive AU, capable of tackling emerging threats while promoting sustainable peace and prosperity for all member states.
