Tinubu Delivers Address to World Leaders During 78th UNGA Session 

By Adeke Chukwuka

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delivered his inaugural address during the 78th session of the United Nations General Assembly on Wednesday morning, September 20, 2023.

The President addressed the recent surge in military coups across Africa and reaffirmed his dedication to restoring democratic governance in Niger in his capacity as the Chairman of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Tinubu further appealed to the international community, emphasising the importance of prioritising investments in African development and emphasising that Africa should not be perceived as a problem to be avoided or pitied.

In his inaugural address at the United Nations General Assembly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu conveyed Nigeria’s congratulations to the newly elected President of the Session. He praised the previous President for his leadership and commended Secretary-General Antonio Guterres for his efforts in addressing global challenges.

President Tinubu touched on Africa’s unique perspective regarding the Assembly’s theme and emphasized the historical context of the United Nations’ formation after World War II. He stressed the importance of international commitment to African development, highlighting the need for economic reforms and partnerships to achieve sustainable growth.

The President outlined five key points in his address:

1. Prioritizing African Development: Encouraging global institutions and other nations to view African development as a mutual priority, with a focus on economic restructuring and job creation.

2. Democratic Governance: Affirming democratic governance as essential and denouncing military coups or unjust political arrangements. He mentioned negotiations with military leaders in Niger to restore democratic governance.

3. Countering Violent Extremism: Addressing the ongoing battle against violent extremists in the region, highlighting the need for international support to combat the flow of arms and extremist ideologies into West Africa.

4. Resource Protection: Emphasizing the importance of safeguarding mineral-rich areas from exploitation and conflict, citing examples in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and other African nations.

5. Climate Change: Acknowledging the severe impact of climate change on Nigeria and Africa, and outlining initiatives to combat it, such as the Green Wall project and sustainable economic efforts. He called for global investment in Africa’s climate change initiatives.

President Tinubu concluded by reiterating Nigeria’s commitment to peace, security, human rights, and development. He emphasized Africa’s desire for partnership, prosperity, and a democratic living space, inviting the world to walk with Africa as true friends and partners in shaping the world’s future.