Tinubu seeks total elimination of nuclear weapons

-SPECIAL REPORT-

Special Report: Tinubu’s Global Call for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons

In a powerful diplomatic statement delivered at the United Nations headquarters in New York, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has called for the complete eradication of nuclear weapons worldwide.

Represented by Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Tinubu’s message was presented during the high-level meeting commemorating the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons. His speech underscored Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to global peace and security, emphasizing the catastrophic humanitarian consequences that could result from the intentional or accidental use of nuclear weapons.

President Tinubu declared that the total elimination of nuclear weapons remains the only absolute guarantee against their use or threat of use. He expressed deep concern over the continued existence of these weapons and the lack of political will among Nuclear-Weapon States to dismantle their arsenals. He urged these states to implement all agreed measures and to cease the testing, development, and modernization of nuclear weapons, including associated research activities. Tinubu’s remarks highlighted the existential threat posed by nuclear weapons to humanity and the environment, calling for urgent action to dismantle them and prevent further proliferation.

Nigeria’s leader reaffirmed the country’s dedication to the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW), noting that Nigeria was among the first nations to sign the treaty and actively contributed to its negotiation. He praised states that had ratified the TPNW and encouraged others to accede without delay. Tinubu also emphasized the importance of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), advocating for strict compliance with its three pillars: disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy.

The President drew attention to Africa’s proactive stance through the Pelindaba Treaty, which declares the continent a nuclear-weapons-free zone. He urged other regions to emulate Africa’s example and commit to similar treaties.

Tinubu also stressed the peaceful applications of nuclear technology, particularly in advancing development goals in sectors such as health and energy. He reminded all nations of their obligations under existing international frameworks to uphold nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation norms.

In closing, Tinubu’s address was a clarion call for global unity and moral responsibility. He emphasized that the benefits of nuclear disarmament are immense and that the international community must demonstrate courage and resolve to achieve a world free of nuclear weapons. 

His message resonated as a bold reaffirmation of Nigeria’s leadership in advocating for peace, security, and the sanctity of human life in the face of one of the gravest threats to global stability