President Bola Tinubu has called for the total elimination of nuclear weapons worldwide, stressing that their continued existence poses a significant threat to international peace and security.
Delivering Nigeria’s statement at the high-level meeting to commemorate the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons at the UN headquarters in New York, Tinubu emphasized the need for collective action toward a world free of nuclear weapons.
The President likened the threat of nuclear weapons to a catastrophic humanitarian crisis, saying, “The catastrophic humanitarian consequences that could result from either intentional use or unintentional explosion of these dangerous weapons are dire.” He urged Nuclear Weapon States to be mindful of the impact of these weapons on human health, the environment, and vital economic resources.
Tinubu expressed concern over the resistance and lack of political will by Nuclear-Weapon States to ensure total elimination of their nuclear arsenals. “We need to see action toward the dismantling of these weapons,” he said, adding that member states must demonstrate sincerity of purpose and commitment to the goal of total elimination of nuclear weapons.
The President commended all states that had ratified the Treaty on the Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons (TPNW) and urged those yet to do so to accede 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 said.
Tinubu highlighted the significance of the Pelindaba Treaty, which declared Africa a nuclear-weapon-free zone, as a model for other regions to follow. He also emphasized the importance of peaceful uses of nuclear energy, saying Nigeria has embraced nuclear technology to advance its development goals.
The President reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to achieving a world free of nuclear weapons, saying, “Nigeria will continue to do its part to ensure total elimination of nuclear weapons is achieved.” He urged all states to work assiduously toward the actualization of the goals and objectives of a nuclear weapons-free world.
As the world commemorates the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, Tinubu’s call for nuclear disarmament serves as a reminder of the need for collective action toward a more peaceful and secure world.