The Nigerian government has reiterated its dedication to strengthening international partnerships and deepening ties with member states of the Organisation of African, Caribbean, and Pacific States (OACPS). This was highlighted during a high-level OACPS meeting on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, where Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu.
At the meeting chaired by Angola, Vice President Shettima emphasized the importance of solidarity among OACPS member states in addressing global challenges and reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the organisation’s goals. He highlighted Nigeria’s role as a key partner in promoting shared values such as democracy, diaspora engagement, and development.
In response to Nigeria’s recent inclusion on a high-risk jurisdiction list due to anti-money laundering concerns, Shettima addressed the need for constructive dialogue with international partners to set the record straight.
Shettima also praised Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to aid Haiti’s crisis and underscored Nigeria’s historical role in South-South cooperation, referencing Nigeria’s technical aid corps, which has deployed teachers and doctors to Caribbean nations.
He outlined Nigeria’s strategy to leverage its position as Africa’s most populous country to advocate for OACPS interests in international financial systems and strengthen ties with both developing and developed nations. Shettima reiterated that President Tinubu’s vision aligns with OACPS priorities and stressed that Nigeria’s success is interconnected with that of its partner nations.
Secretary-General of OACPS, Georges Rebelo Pinto Chikoti, praised Nigeria as a key player in the organisation and expressed appreciation for the country’s significant contributions. He emphasized the importance of partnerships with the European Union, particularly in areas such as the environment, infrastructure, education, and business development.