President Bola Tinubu urges total elimination of nuclear weapons at the UN, stressing global responsibility, disarmament, and Africa’s leadership through the Pelindaba Treaty.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called for the total elimination of nuclear weapons worldwide, stressing that their continued existence poses a grave threat to humanity.
Tinubu made the call while delivering Nigeria’s statement at the high-level meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons at the United Nations headquarters in New York. He was represented by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar.
Shared Responsibility for Global Peace
Tinubu said the event served as a reminder of the world’s shared responsibility to eradicate nuclear weapons.
He emphasized that the only absolute guarantee against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons is their complete elimination.
Call to Nuclear-Weapon States
Tinubu urged Nuclear-Weapon States to take concrete steps toward dismantling their arsenals, stressing the devastating impact of weapons of mass destruction on human health, the environment, and economic resources.
He expressed concern over the lack of political will by nuclear powers to disarm, urging them to implement all agreed measures toward achieving a nuclear-free world.
Support for Global Treaties
Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which rests on three pillars:
- Disarmament
- Non-proliferation
- Peaceful uses of nuclear energy
He commended states that had ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and urged others to accede without delay.
He also called on nuclear powers to cease testing, development, and modernisation of nuclear weapons, including related research activities.
Africa’s Nuclear-Free Zone
Tinubu highlighted Africa’s leadership in nuclear disarmament through the Pelindaba Treaty, which declares the continent a nuclear-weapons-free zone. The treaty prohibits the stationing and testing of nuclear explosive devices across Africa.
He urged other regions to emulate Africa by adopting similar frameworks.
Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy
While advocating disarmament, Tinubu underscored the importance of peaceful nuclear energy for development.
He reminded all states of their obligation to comply with existing frameworks to uphold global nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation norms.
Outlook
Tinubu concluded by stressing that the benefits of nuclear disarmament are enormous and essential for the survival of humanity.
