Vice President Shettima In Ethiopia For 39th AU Assembly

Vice-President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 39th Ordinary Session of the African Union Assembly, scheduled for February 14th to 15th.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, disclosed this in a statement issued by the ministry’s spokesperson, Kimiebi Ebienfa.

On arrival at the Bole International Airport, the vice-president was received by senior Ethiopian government officials, alongside representatives of the Nigerian Embassy.

The Foreign Affairs Minister highlighted Nigeria’s diplomatic gains at the just concluded 48th Session of the Executive Council of the AU which includes the Council’s agreement to grant Nigeria a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank.

He described the decision as a landmark development reflecting Nigeria’s strategic role in shaping Africa’s financial and monetary integration framework.

According to the minister, the development also secures Nigeria’s representation on the Board of the African Monetary Institute, to pave way for the establishment of the African Central Bank.

He noted that the decision affirms Nigeria’s technical expertise, economic relevance, and commitment to continental integration.

On peace and security, Tuggar stated that the session recorded the successful election of candidates jointly endorsed by the ECOWAS to the AU Peace and Security Council.

He said the outcome demonstrates unity among member states and a shared commitment to stability across the region and the continent.

The minister further revealed that Nigeria demonstrated leadership in democratic governance by convening a ministerial high-level panel discussion on regional partnerships for democracy.

Tuggar reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ideals of the African Union, particularly in advancing economic integration, institutional development, peace, security, and democratic governance.

He added that the Federal Government remains dedicated to working with African partners to promote shared prosperity and sustainable development.

The event brought together ministers, senior officials, and delegates from across Africa and beyond.

PR/ Uju Oparaji