Nigeria has reiterated its support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, emphasising that lasting peace can only be achieved if both nations are granted autonomy.
This position was articulated by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Dunoma Umar, at the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations in Abuja. Represented by the Director of Protocol, Ambassador Wahab Akande, Umar stated:
“Nigeria, like the rest of the world, stands firmly that a two-state solution remains the only path to lasting peace for Israel and Palestine, where both states live in peace and prosperity, ” he said.
He highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to multilateral diplomacy, stressing that cooperation and dialogue were essential to prevent extremist forces from driving divisions between communities and religions.
Ambassador Umar also reiterated Nigeria’s demand for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, framing it as a call for fairness, continental representation, and institutional credibility.
“The United Nations will discover its true relevance only when it sees the world as it is, not as it was,” Umar said, noting Nigeria’s transformation from a colony of 20 million to a sovereign nation of over 200 million with a dynamic population projected to be the third largest globally by 2025.
He also highlighted Nigeria’s support for the UN80 Initiative, advocating reforms to enhance efficiency, reduce duplication of roles, and strengthen multilateral cooperation.
Umar stressed that sustainable peace relies on economic growth and prosperity.
He cited Nigeria’s economic reforms, the African Continental Free Trade Area, and the continent’s abundant critical minerals as opportunities for investment and peacebuilding.
“Access to strategic minerals has too often been a source of conflict rather than prosperity,” he said, urging international engagement to foster economic emancipation and stability in Africa.
The UN Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria, Mohamed Fall, praised the UN’s achievements over 80 years, describing it as a “bridge across difference” and a “voice for the voiceless.”
He urged member states to act intentionally in building the future, emphasizing that multilateralism must serve peace, people, the planet, and prosperity.
“The UN belongs to all of us. Let us support the United Nations and make multilateralism work for the many, not only the few,” Fall said.
The event underscored Nigeria’s enduring commitment to peace, human rights, democratic governance, and global cooperation, reinforcing its role as a key player in regional and international diplomacy.
