By Cross Udo
The Nigerian government reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger international partnerships and deepening relations with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS) on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing global event, stated this at a high-level OACPS meeting in Angola.
Reiterating the importance of solidarity among member states in the face of numerous global challenges, the Vice President emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to the organisation’s goals, while addressing pressing national concerns.
In a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the vice president, was quoted as saying, “Nigeria remains a principal partner of OACPS, championing our shared values of democracy, diaspora engagement, and development.
“Our presence here at the UN General Assembly allows us to amplify these priorities on the global stage and explore avenues for deeper collaboration.”
Shettima used the opportunity to address Nigeria’s recent inclusion on a high-risk jurisdiction list for anti-money laundering concerns, saying, “We’re here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.”
The VP reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for OACPS initiatives, including the organisation’s focus on Haiti’s ongoing crisis. While acknowledging Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to Haiti, he highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in South-South cooperation.
He said, “Our technical aid corps programme, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean, exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to uplifting fellow OACPS nations.”
VP Shettima outlined Nigeria’s strategy to leverage its position as Africa’s most populous nation to advocate for OACPS interests, promote fair treatment in international financial systems, and strengthen ties with developing and developed countries.
“We’re representing Nigeria’s interests while also championing the collective voice of the OACPS. President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria aligns closely with the OACPS agenda. In today’s interconnected world, our success is intertwined with that of our partner nations,” VP Shettima emphasized.
Earlier, the Secretary-General of OACPS, Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, lauded Nigeria as “a motor of the OACPS and an important member state.”
Chikoti noted that the meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation with Nigeria and expressed gratitude for the country’s significant contributions.
The Secretary-General expressed confidence in the UN’s involvement and commitment to supporting member states facing various challenges.
He also reiterated the importance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS member states and the European Union, focusing on crucial collaborations in environmental, infrastructure, education, and business development.
