The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to fostering stronger partnership and deepened relations with the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS).
The spokesperson of the Vice-President Kashim Shettima, Mr Stanley Nkwocha, in a statement, said Shettima stated this during a high-level OACPS meeting chaired by Angola.
The meeting was held on the sidelines of the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Shettima reiterated the importance of solidarity among member states in the face of numerous global challenges.
The vice-president also emphasised Nigeria’s commitment to the organisation’s goals, while addressing pressing national concerns.
“Nigeria remains a principal partner of OACPS, championing our shared values of democracy, diaspora engagement, and development.
“Our presence here at the UN General Assembly allows us to amplify these priorities on the global stage and explore avenues for deeper collaboration,” he said.
On the recent inclusion of Nigeria on a high-risk jurisdiction list for anti-money laundering concerns, Shettima said, “We’re here to set the record straight and engage in constructive dialogue with our international partners.”
He reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for OACPS initiatives, including the organisation’s focus on Haiti’s ongoing crisis.
While acknowledging Kenya’s contribution of 400 troops to Haiti, he highlighted Nigeria’s historical role in South-South cooperation.
Shettima said, “Our technical aid corps programme, which has sent teachers and doctors to the Caribbean, exemplifies Nigeria’s commitment to uplifting fellow OACPS nations.”
He outlined Nigeria’s strategy to leverage its position as Africa’s most populous nation.
This, according to him, will enable the country to advocate for OACPS interests, promote fair treatment in international financial systems, and strengthen ties with both developing and developed nations.
“We’re representing Nigeria’s interests while also championing the collective voice of the OACPS.
“President Bola Tinubu’s vision for Nigeria aligns closely with the OACPS agenda.
“In today’s interconnected world, our success is intertwined with that of our partner nations,” Shettima emphasised.
Earlier, the Secretary-General of OACPS, Georges Chikoti, lauded Nigeria as “a motor of the OACPS and an important member state.”
Chikoti said that the meeting aimed to strengthen cooperation with Nigeria and expressed gratitude for the country’s significant contributions.
The secretary-general expressed confidence in the UN’s involvement and commitment to supporting member states facing various challenges.
He also reiterated the importance of strengthening partnerships between OACPS member states and the European Union.
According to Chikoti, such partnerships will also focus on crucial collaborations in areas such as environment, infrastructure, education, and business development.
By Salisu Sani-Idris
