AMID GROWING SECURITY CONCERNS, NIGERIA CALLS FOR STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP WITH JAPAN

By Vincess Okushi

The Nigerian government has called for the collaboration of the government of Japan to address the spark of insecurity in the continent.

Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Yusuf Tuggar disclosed this during the Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD) in Japan, 

He stresses greater international cooperation to combat the escalating security threats plaguing Africa.

Adding that terrorism and transnational organized crimes are exacerbating the continent, undermining governance and discouraging foreign investments.

Tuggar admonishes that these multifaceted challenges require joint efforts to surmount their impact on the continent.

The proliferation of small arms, foreign mercenaries, and the effects of climate change, coupled with illicit financial flows, are choking Africa’s development

He added that an estimated $88.6 billion is lost annually to illicit flows, an amount equivalent to 3% of its GDP.

Highlighting the adverse impact of cryptocurrency pirates on Africa’s economies, stressing that these cybercriminals are weakening local currencies and fueling unconstitutional changes in government. 

Tuggar, therefore, appealed to Japan and other international partners to join forces to boost multidimensional support to Lake Chad, the Great Lakes, and the Sahel.

And called for TICAD 9 to focus on strategic infrastructure, foreign direct investments, and the transfer of technology to boost indigenous entrepreneurship and innovation. 

Even as he harped on the need to empower women and youth in Africa for long-term stability and growth.

The Minister also urged Japan to join Africa’s push for the reform of the United Nations Security Council, advocating for Africa to have two permanent and non-permanent seats, as outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. 

According to him, this vision will position the region for global justice, while reiterating Africa’s commitment to working with international partners to achieve the change Africa craves

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