By Ayo Ayodele
Nigeria has secured a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank following deliberations at the 39th Session of the Executive Council of the African Union.
The development marks a significant diplomatic milestone for the country, reinforcing its influence in shaping Africa’s financial and monetary architecture. The decision also grants Nigeria representation on the Board of the African Monetary Institute, through its Technical Convergence Committee, which serves as a precursor to the establishment of the African Central Bank.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on Thursday, the achievement reflects Nigeria’s technical expertise, economic standing, and sustained commitment to advancing Africa’s monetary integration agenda.
In the area of peace and security, candidates jointly endorsed by the Economic Community of West African States were successfully elected to the Peace and Security Council. The outcome, the ministry noted, highlights the unity and cooperation among ECOWAS member states in promoting regional stability and collective security across the continent.
Nigeria also convened a Ministerial High-Level Panel Discussion on Regional Partnerships for Democracy during the summit. The event brought together ministers, senior government officials, and delegates from across Africa and the international community to deliberate on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive governance, and enhancing regional collaboration in sustaining democratic values.
The Federal Government said Nigeria’s engagements and outcomes at the summit reaffirm its commitment to the core objectives of the African Union, particularly in advancing economic integration, institutional development, peace, security, and democratic governance.
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, stated that Nigeria remains committed to working closely with member states and regional bodies to promote Africa’s shared prosperity and sustainable development.
The 39th Executive Council session concluded with renewed calls for deeper continental cooperation and stronger institutional frameworks to drive Africa’s long-term growth.