NEW YORK: On the margins of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Nigerian delegation reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening international partnerships and deepening relations with Member States of the Organization of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).
Led by Vice President Kashim Shettima, in the absence of President Bola Tinubu who was represented at the global event, Nigeria took a stand at a high-level meeting of the OACPS, chaired by Angola.
Recalling the importance of solidarity among Member States in the face of many global challenges, the Vice President underscored Nigeria’s commitment to the objectives of the organization, while addressing pressing national concerns.
In a statement relayed by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said: “Nigeria remains a key partner of the OACPS, championing our shared values of democracy, diaspora engagement and development.
“Our presence here at the UN General Assembly allows us to advance these priorities on the international stage and explore avenues for deeper collaboration.”
Senator Shettima took the opportunity to address Nigeria’s recent inclusion on a list of high-risk anti-money laundering jurisdictions, saying: “We are here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.”
The VP reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the OACPS initiatives, particularly with a focus on the ongoing crisis in Haiti. While acknowledging Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to Haiti, he highlighted Nigeria’s historic role in South-South cooperation.
According to him, “Our Technical Assistance Corps programme, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean, exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to supporting OACPS partner nations.”
VP Shettima outlined Nigeria’s strategy to leverage its position as Africa’s most populous nation to advocate for the interests of the OACPS, promote fair treatment in international financial systems and strengthen ties with developing and developed nations.
“We represent the interests of Nigeria while championing the collective voice of the OACPS. President Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria is closely aligned with the OACPS agenda. In today’s interconnected world, our success is linked to that of our partner nations,” VP Shettima stressed.
Earlier, OACPS Secretary General Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti hailed Nigeria as “a driving force of the OACPS and an important member of the organization.”
Chikoti noted that the meeting was aimed at strengthening cooperation with Nigeria and expressed gratitude for the country’s significant contributions.
The Secretary-General expressed his confidence in the involvement of the UN and the commitment to support Member States facing various challenges.
He also stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS Member States and the European Union, with a focus on crucial collaborations in areas such as the environment, infrastructure, education and business development.