Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, has completed a diplomatic tour of West African countries, seeking to strengthen bilateral relations and rally support for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. This initiative aligns with Nigeria’s foreign policy priorities, which include promoting African integration, protecting national interests, and enhancing international collaboration.
During his visit to Togo, Tuggar engaged in talks on joint investment in the phosphate sector, essential for fertilizer production. Highlighting Nigeria’s numerous fertilizer blending plants, he underscored the potential for mutual economic gains, given Togo’s mineral wealth.
In Guinea-Bissau, Tuggar focused on the importance of stability and peace, noting Nigeria’s ongoing support through troop deployments and diplomatic mediation efforts aimed at fostering harmony in the region. He reaffirmed the commitment of President Tinubu’s administration to regional peace-building initiatives.
The tour also included a visit to Gambia, where Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s role in Gambia’s development, particularly in education, through the Technical Aid Corps’ deployment of Nigerian professionals.
Cote d’Ivoire, a significant economy within ECOWAS, was the last stop. Discussions centered on economic ties, especially via the Abidjan-Lagos trade corridor, and explored collaboration in cashew and other agricultural sectors.
Ambassador Tuggar emphasized Nigeria’s suitability for a permanent Security Council seat, pointing to its substantial history in promoting peace and security across Africa. With over two-thirds of Security Council decisions impacting Africa, he argued that Nigeria’s presence would be instrumental.
Support for Nigeria’s Security Council bid and the candidacy of Femi Elias for the International Court of Justice was secured during this initial diplomatic outreach. This effort highlights Nigeria’s dedication to regional integration and underscores its pivotal role in Africa’s security landscape, positioning it as an influential player on the global stage.
