Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Treaty of Pelindaba at UN General Assembly

Emmanuel Daudu

The Honourable Minister of Defence, His Excellency Mohammed Abubakar Badaru, has reiterated Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which declares Africa a nuclear weapon-free zone.

Speaking at the high-level meeting of the “Friends of Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty” initiative, hosted by Japan’s Prime Minister Kishida at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Badaru emphasized the importance of a nuclear-free Africa for future generations.

Nigeria joined several like-minded nations in launching a campaign advocating for a treaty that would prohibit the production of fissile material for nuclear weapons and other explosive devices, aiming to curb the proliferation and enhancement of nuclear arsenals globally.

Badaru reaffirmed that Nigeria, along with the African continent, remains steadfast in its commitment to the Treaty of Pelindaba, which has long declared Africa as a nuclear weapon-free zone.

He emphasized that Nigeria will continue to play a leading role in global efforts for nuclear disarmament and the prevention of nuclear weapons proliferation.

“Nigeria remains a key advocate for nuclear disarmament and non-proliferation, actively participating in initiatives aimed at strengthening the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and advancing the proposed Fissile Material Cut-Off Treaty (FMCT),” Badaru stated.

He added that the FMCT, once adopted, would prohibit the production of fissile materials for use in nuclear weapons, thereby enhancing global nuclear security.

The Minister also highlighted the importance of the FMCT in fostering transparency and cooperation between nuclear and non-nuclear states, promoting peaceful uses of nuclear energy.

He called for full support from African nations and civil society organizations for the FMCT initiative.

As the cornerstone of global nuclear disarmament efforts, Badaru reiterated that the NPT remains vital to global security, and the adoption of the FMCT would only serve to reinforce its objectives.

He urged stakeholders worldwide to rally behind this crucial initiative.

The high-level meeting saw participation from several nations and civil society organizations, all dedicated to advancing global nuclear disarmament efforts.