During the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, the Nigerian government has emphasized its commitment to building stronger partnerships with the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the global event, spoke at a high-level OACPS meeting chaired by Angola. He highlighted the importance of solidarity among member states, especially in facing global challenges, and reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to the organization’s goals while addressing national issues.
In a statement from his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima 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 Vice President also addressed Nigeria’s recent listing as a high-risk jurisdiction for anti-money laundering, stating, “We’re here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.”
Shettima affirmed Nigeria’s support for OACPS initiatives, particularly concerning the ongoing crisis in Haiti. He praised Kenya for contributing 400 troops to Haiti and highlighted Nigeria’s historical support through its technical aid corps program, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean.
“Our technical aid corps programme exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to uplifting fellow OACPS nations,” he noted.
He outlined Nigeria’s strategy to use its position as Africa’s most populous nation to advocate for OACPS interests, promote fair treatment in international financial systems, and strengthen relationships with both 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,” he emphasized.
Earlier, OACPS Secretary-General Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti praised Nigeria as “a motor of the OACPS and an important member state.” He expressed gratitude for Nigeria’s significant contributions and confidence in the UN’s commitment to supporting member states facing various challenges. Chikoti also stressed the importance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS member states and the European Union, focusing on collaboration in areas such as environment, infrastructure, education, and business development.
