Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger international partnerships and deepening relations with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS) on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing global event, stated this at a high-level OACPS meeting chaired by Angola.
Reiterating the importance of solidarity among member states in the face of numerous global challenges, the Vice President emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to the organisation’s goals, while addressing pressing national concerns.
According to a statement by his spokesman, Stanley Nkeocha, 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.” He used the opportunity to address Nigeria’s recent inclusion on a high-risk jurisdiction list for anti-money laundering concerns.
He said: “We’re here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.” The Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for OACPS initiatives, including the organisation’s focus on Haiti’s ongoing crisis.
While acknowledging Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to Haiti, he highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in SouthSouth cooperation. Shettima said:
“Our technical aid corps programme, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean, exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to uplifting fellow OACPS nations.”
He 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 both developing and developed nations.
“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,” Shettima emphasized.”