On regional security, the Vice President commended the AU Peace and Security Council for endorsing the Combined Maritime Task Force for the Gulf of Guinea as a standby force designed to deliver rapid and coordinated maritime responses to threats across the sub-region. He assured that Nigeria would meet its obligations toward the establishment of the force and the strengthening of the African Union Standby Force. On governance and institutional processes, Nigeria supported proposals to refine the criteria for membership of the AU Peace and Security Council, advocating clearer modalities for cooperation between the continental body and Regional Economic Communities to improve predictability and effectiveness in peace and security management. He also underscored the importance of closer coordination between the Peace and Security Council and the Committee of Ten Heads of State and Government on United Nations Security Council Reform. Addressing democracy and constitutional order, the Vice President reaffirmed Nigeria’s backing for reforms designed to strengthen democratic institutions across Africa, while commending ongoing AU efforts to confront unconstitutional changes of government and promote accountable leadership.

Source: The Guardian February 16, 2026 05:35 UTC