President Bola Ahmed Tinubu arrived in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, on Thursday night for the 38th African Union Summit. The gathering brings together Africa’s leaders to deliberate on pressing issues like reparatory justice, security, and economic development.
Tinubu’s presence signals Nigeria’s commitment to driving regional collaboration and solidifying its leadership role in Africa. Speaking on the visit, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, highlighted the nation’s recent diplomatic achievements. “Nigeria’s re-election to the AU Peace and Security Council underscores our commitment to stability across the continent,” Tuggar said.
High-Level Delegation and Key Agenda
Tinubu is accompanied by top government officials, including Finance Minister Wale Edun and Defence Minister Abubakar Badaru. Discussions at the summit will center on reparatory justice, health financing, and the establishment of an African Credit Rating Agency. Tinubu is also set to address the African Union Peace and Security Council on escalating conflicts, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
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The summit’s theme, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations,” aims to address historical injustices and foster racial healing. Reparatory justice, according to AU officials, is emerging as a transformative dialogue for Africa and its diaspora.
Nigeria’s Diplomatic Impact
Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, reappointed as AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, reaffirmed Nigeria’s influence within the AU. “This appointment reflects the confidence Africa has in Nigeria’s leadership,” Adeoye said during a midnight briefing with President Tinubu.
Tinubu’s government has prioritized peacebuilding, a focus that resonates with the summit’s agenda. Observers see Nigeria’s proactive diplomacy as a strategic move to position itself at the forefront of Africa’s socio-political and economic transformation.
President Tinubu is expected to return to Abuja on Monday, February 17, following key discussions on Africa’s development and security challenges. His participation highlights Nigeria’s evolving role as a stabilizing force on the continent, reinforcing its position as a regional powerhouse.
The summit underscores Africa’s collective push toward justice, equity, and sustainability.
