President Bola Tinubu has made a compelling call for the total elimination of nuclear weapons across the globe, emphasizing the urgent need for collective action in this critical area of international security.
This significant appeal was made during his address while delivering Nigeria’s statement at a high-level meeting organized to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York City.
In his absence, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, represented President Tinubu, articulating the Nigerian leader’s vision and commitment to a world free from the threat of nuclear armament. Tinubu’s remarks served as a poignant reminder to the global community about the shared responsibility and collective resolve required to eradicate these dangerous weapons that pose a significant threat to humanity.
“Nigeria will continue to do its part to ensure that the total elimination of nuclear weapons is achieved,” President Tinubu stated emphatically. He underscored that the complete eradication of nuclear weapons is the only absolute guarantee against their potential use or the threat of their use, which has been a persistent concern for nations around the world.
“The catastrophic humanitarian consequences that could arise from either the intentional use or an unintentional explosion of these dangerous weapons are dire,” he warned, highlighting the severe implications that nuclear weapons hold for global safety and security. The president urged Nuclear Weapons States to be acutely aware of the far-reaching impacts that weapons of mass destruction can have on human health, the environment, and essential economic resources, among other critical areas.
“We need to see decisive action toward the dismantling of these weapons,” he insisted, pointing out that the ongoing existence of nuclear weapons presents a formidable challenge to international peace and security. The Nigerian leader reiterated his deep concern regarding the resistance and lack of political will exhibited by Nuclear-Weapon States, which hampers progress toward the total elimination of their nuclear arsenals.
“We, therefore, urge all Nuclear Weapons States to implement all agreed measures toward achieving the total elimination of nuclear weapons,” he stated firmly. In addition, Nigeria wishes to renew its call on all states to work diligently and assiduously toward the realization of the goals and objectives of a nuclear weapons-free world. “We are convinced that the universalization of the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is dependent upon strict compliance with its three pillars,” he explained.
These three pillars—disarmament, non-proliferation, and the peaceful use of nuclear energy—are fundamental to ensuring a balanced and secure approach to nuclear issues globally. President Tinubu commended all states that have ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and urged those nations that have yet to do so to accede to the treaty without delay. “My delegation takes pride in having actively contributed to the negotiation process and in being among the first countries to sign the treaty,” he remarked, emphasizing Nigeria’s proactive role in the global disarmament dialogue.
He further articulated that the TPNW represents a significant step toward achieving a world free of nuclear weapons, reinforcing the need for continued commitment to this cause. “In this regard, my delegation also calls on all Nuclear-Weapon States to cease the testing, development, and modernization of nuclear weapons, including associated research activities,” he stated, highlighting the importance of halting any advancements that could exacerbate the nuclear threat.
The existential threat posed by nuclear weapons to humanity has prompted African countries to adopt the Pelindaba Treaty, which declares Africa a nuclear-weapons-free zone. This treaty prohibits, among other things, the stationing of nuclear explosive devices and their testing throughout the entire African continent. President Tinubu enjoined all member states from other regions, particularly those that are not yet free of nuclear weapons, to emulate Africa’s example in their respective regions, advocating for a global movement toward disarmament.
“Nigeria underscores the importance of the peaceful uses of nuclear energy and, like many other developing countries, has embraced nuclear technology to advance its development goals,” he noted, emphasizing that nuclear energy can be harnessed for beneficial purposes, such as improving healthcare, agriculture, and energy production, rather than being solely associated with military applications.
In his address, Tinubu further reminded all states of their obligation to comply fully with existing frameworks designed to uphold global nuclear safety, security, and non-proliferation norms. He asserted that the benefits of nuclear disarmament are enormous and cannot be underestimated, as they pave the way for a safer and more secure world for future generations.
“Member States must demonstrate sincerity of purpose and commitment to the goal of the total elimination of nuclear weapons,” he urged, calling for a unified approach to tackle this pressing issue. “While there are no easy solutions, we must remain resolutely focused on achieving a world free of nuclear weapons and be better assured of our survival as the human race,” he concluded, encapsulating the essence of his message and the urgency of the task at hand.
In summary, President Bola Tinubu’s call for the total elimination of nuclear weapons is not just a plea for disarmament; it is a clarion call for global unity and action. His statements at the UN highlight the critical need for all nations to come together, recognize their shared responsibilities, and work collaboratively toward a future where the threat of nuclear weapons is a relic of the past. The path to a nuclear-free world may be fraught with challenges, but with collective resolve and commitment, it is a goal that can be achieved for the safety and security of all humanity.
