United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres has urged Nigeria to spearhead Africa’s quest for a restructured global order.

Guterres describes the country as uniquely positioned to lead the continent towards superpower status.

He also backed Nigeria’s push for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, commending the economic reforms of the President Bola Tinubu-led administration and the country’s stabilisation role in the Sahel and ECOWAS sub-region.

Gutterres says Nigeria’s large population, sustained democratic governance, vast natural and human resources, and longstanding commitment to multilateralism make it a natural leader in the evolving global architecture.

He notes that given Nigeria’s demographic strength, democratic continuity and deep resource base, the country stands a real chance of leading Africa to becoming the next superpower in the evolving global architecture.
The United Nations chief spoke during a high-level bilateral meeting.

Guterres applauded what he described as the “remarkable and outstanding reforms” of the Tinubu administration, noting that Nigeria’s bold economic restructuring and security commitments have strengthened its continental standing.

The meeting also focused on strengthening Nigeria–UN collaboration in advancing global economic growth, peace and security, sustainable development, and coordinated humanitarian response across Africa.

Vice President Kashim Shettima said Africa has benefitted immensely from the United Nations despite undergoing internal restructuring.

Shettima stated that the continent remain committed to multilateralism and to deepening partnerships with the United Nations and other global institutions.

Shettima also reiterated Nigeria’s longstanding call for comprehensive reform of the United Nations system to reflect evolving global realities

He insisted that Africa must have stronger representation in global decision-making structures.

The Vice President declared that Nigeria deserves a permanent seat on the Security Council.

Both leaders pledged to deepen cooperation, with Guterres reaffirming the UN’s support for Nigeria’s reform agenda and its growing leadership role in advancing peace, security and development across the African continent.