President Bola Tinubu has called on world leaders to adopt multilateralism and reject protectionism to achieve lasting peace, security, and stability. Speaking at the 2024 Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in Beijing, China, Tinubu emphasized the importance of cooperative global partnerships in addressing current global challenges, including food insecurity and armed conflict.
In his capacity as Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government, Tinubu stated, “There is an urgent need to rethink the approach to global governance and economic development.” He urged nations to build partnerships based on mutual respect, fairness, and inclusiveness, stressing that peace is not merely the absence of war but the presence of justice, equity, and economic opportunity.
Tinubu praised the African Union’s (AU) consistent advocacy for global peace and acknowledged the significance of the AU’s Silencing the Guns Initiative in restoring peace across the continent. He also commended China’s contributions to Africa through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative and FOCAC.
The President reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to promoting peace and security across West Africa, highlighting the country’s role in ECOWAS’ transition into a regional security bloc. He also noted that Nigeria’s peace-building efforts combine military intervention with diplomacy, economic collaboration, and humanitarian aid.
Tinubu closed his remarks by affirming Nigeria’s ongoing commitment to fostering peace, good governance, and regional stability, vowing to continue supporting a secure and prosperous West Africa.