Nigeria Takes Fresh Stand On Nuclear Weapons, Reveals Message Sent To UN

Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has reaffirmed the country’s commitment to international efforts aimed at eliminating nuclear-weapon testing worldwide.

Ibrahim stated that Nigeria does not possess nuclear weapons and has never embarked on a nuclear weapons programme, stressing the country’s position on the issue.

He made the remarks at the United Nations General Assembly during the 108th Plenary Meeting of the 80th Session in New York.

The Nigerian envoy, who also serves as Chairman of the UN Committee on Budget and Administration, called for a review of Article 2(7) of the United Nations Charter.

According to him, the principle of non-intervention in the internal affairs of sovereign states should not be used as a barrier to international action against countries that conduct nuclear-weapon tests or possess weapons of mass destruction.

Ibrahim noted that several international institutions and regulatory frameworks are in place to monitor, regulate and address issues surrounding weapons of mass destruction.

He identified the Nigeria Atomic Energy Commission as one of the key institutions responsible for overseeing nuclear-related activities and maintaining the country’s regulatory framework in the sector.

The Nigerian representative also highlighted the country’s cooperation with nations across the world, including Russia, China, France, South Korea and the United States, as part of its broader commitment to international collaboration on nuclear matters.

Ibrahim said President Bola Tinubu had directed him to reiterate Nigeria’s willingness to deepen international partnerships and support global initiatives aimed at eliminating nuclear-weapon testing from the international system.