President Bola Tinubu has rejected a proposal to divide the African Union’s (AU) Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS), warning that the move could weaken governance and conflict resolution structures across the continent.
Speaking at the 38th AU Summit in Addis Ababa, Tinubu—represented by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar—argued that increasing bureaucracy would burden member states without solving existing security challenges.
“Reconfiguring PAPS in this manner will only lead to unnecessary expenditure and fragmentation,” Tinubu stated in a speech delivered by Tuggar. “We already have a Peace Support Operations Directorate under PAPS; creating an independent body will destabilize the AU’s peace and security processes.”
Backing Kagame and Ruto on AU Reforms
Tinubu commended Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Kenyan President William Ruto for spearheading reform efforts but emphasized the need to streamline, rather than expand, AU structures.
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He supported the recommendation to cap AU Summit discussions at three strategic agenda items, a move aimed at making decisions more focused and actionable.
Nigeria also endorsed the formation of a Heads of State Oversight Committee on AU reforms, to be led by Ruto, ensuring that changes align with continental priorities.
Phased Reforms Over Sweeping Changes
Cautioning against abrupt structural changes, Tinubu urged the AU to implement reforms in phases.
“Instead of attempting a total overhaul at once, we should focus on implementing policies where consensus already exists,” he said. “Continuous consultation without execution will only stall progress.”
With Nigeria playing an increasingly pivotal role in regional diplomacy and security, Tinubu’s stance signals a broader strategy to ensure AU reforms enhance, rather than complicate, peace and governance efforts across Africa.
