Nigeria opposes the proposed splitting of the AU’s Department of Political Affairs, citing concerns about unnecessary costs and potential instability. President Tinubu emphasized the need for a cohesive structure and supports reform initiatives that prioritize transparency and inclusiveness. He advocates for a phased approach to reforms, focusing on areas where consensus is already established.
The Nigerian government has officially opposed the proposal to divide the African Union’s (AU) Department of Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) into a separate department. This position was articulated by President Bola Tinubu through Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, during a recent discussion on AU reforms in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.
President Tinubu explained that reconfiguring PAPS could incur unnecessary expenses and disrupt existing operations. He emphasized the importance of maintaining coherence within the current structure, reiterating that a separate Peace Support Operations Directorate would be redundant and could destabilize the AU’s political process.
In his remarks, the President pointed out that reforms should not include issues that had not been communicated to member states. Furthermore, Nigeria reiterated its commitment to contributing to a strengthened and relevant AU in light of evolving geopolitical and economic conditions.
President Tinubu commended the reform efforts proposed by leaders from Rwanda and Kenya, acknowledging the recommendations for establishing a Heads of State oversight committee led by President Ruto. However, he emphasized the necessity for the AU reforms to prioritize inclusiveness and transparency.
He suggested a phased approach to reform, advocating for focus on areas where consensus already exists instead of attempting to achieve agreement on every issue simultaneously. Nigeria remains committed to supporting AU reform initiatives that aim to be transparent and do not destabilize the current framework.
Nigeria firmly opposes the proposed division of the AU’s Department of Political Affairs, viewing this as a potential source of unnecessary expenditure and instability. The nation’s leadership advocates for ongoing transparency and a phased approach to AU reforms, emphasizing the need to focus on areas of existing consensus. This position reflects Nigeria’s commitment to maintaining a cohesive and relevant AU amidst global changes.
Original Source: nannews.ng
