Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar has called for comprehensive reforms of multilateral institutions to address growing global inequalities and power imbalances.
Tuggar made the appeal during the high-level European Union–African Union Partnership Meeting held in Brussels, Belgium, amid rising geopolitical tensions, economic uncertainty, and pressing development challenges across both continents.
Tuggar emphasized the need for Africa to be adequately represented in global decision-making bodies such as the United Nations Security Council, the International Monetary Fund, and the World Bank.
“We must reform our multilateral institutions so they reflect today’s realities, not outdated structures from the post-World War era,” Tuggar said. “Africa must have a seat at the table where key decisions about global governance and development are made.”
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Tuggar’s call comes as African countries face overlapping crises — including climate change, migration pressures, and restricted access to global markets — which he said can only be addressed through equitable cooperation between global powers.
The EU-AU summit, attended by foreign ministers and key stakeholders from both regions, focused on enhancing political partnerships, sustainable investment, peace and security cooperation, and resilience-building efforts. Tuggar praised the EU for its role in supporting development initiatives but urged stronger action on trade fairness and conflict resolution.
He highlighted that multilateralism can only be effective when all voices are heard and respected, and he urged both African and European leaders to support inclusive reforms that go beyond rhetoric.
“As we face common global threats — from pandemics to climate shocks — it is more important than ever to collaborate as equals, not just partners of convenience,” Tuggar concluded.
NAN
