Nigeria has reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening international partnerships and enhancing relations with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS).
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing global event, made this statement during a high-level OACPS meeting on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The meeting was chaired by Angola.
According to a statement signed by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communication, Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima emphasized the importance of solidarity among OACPS member states in the face of global challenges. He also reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to the organization’s objectives while addressing its national concerns.
He said, “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.”
The VP used the meeting 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.”
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for OACPS initiatives, including the organization’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.
“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 added.
The former Borno State Governor 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 nations.
He said, “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.”
Earlier, the Secretary-General of OACPS, Georges 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.
