Issues like proliferation of small weapons, climate change, violent extremism, irregular migration, fragility of democracy, technology, trade, and markets remain some of the major challenges threatening global peace and governance informing the need for a renewed commitment to multilateralism and a candid approach in dealing with them.
According to Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, there is also the need for routine discussions while urging his counterparts from EU-AU member countries to move beyond recitation towards genuine reflection.
A statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communications Strategy, Alkasim Abdulkadir, quoted Tuggar as saying this against the backdrop of the European Union–African Union Ministerial Follow-Up Committee and the 3rd EU–AU Ministerial Meeting in Brussels.
The Nigerian Foreign Affairs Minister
commended the EU’s enduring support for African-led initiatives to help in tackling perceived challenges on the continent but decried the disruptive roles played by non-state actors.
While explaining that disinformation and unregulated digital currency factors have continued to pose existential risks to nations that are rich and poor alike, Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s belief in multilateralism and the promise of strategic partnerships.
On internal pressure faced by African governments struggling to meet rising public expectations with limited capacities, the Nigerian foreign affairs minister stressed the need for a strategic approach to ensure lasting solution.
He also highlighted the potential of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Nigeria’s stake in European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, and regional gains within ECOWAS, including freedom of movement as a viable economic alternative for African youth.
Yusuf Maitama Tuggar faulted the double standards in global responses to hate speech and disinformation, saying, “We were told online, hate speech in Africa was the price of freedom; when it happens here, arrests fellows.”
Editor : Ena Agbanoma
