FG Reaffirms Strategic Autonomy, Seeks Global Support for UN Security Council Seat of 2026 Diplomatic Reception
The Federal Government of Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitment to principled, constructive and forward-looking diplomacy, outlining strategic autonomy, regional stability and responsible global partnership as the core pillars of its foreign policy in 2026.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Maitama Tuggar, stated this on Tuesday in Abuja while hosting members of the Diplomatic Corps and Heads of International Organisations accredited to Nigeria at the 2026 New Year Reception held at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
The event was attended by the Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, the Permanent Secretary, Dunoma Umar Ahmed, senior ministry officials, ambassadors, high commissioners, and representatives of international organisations.
Addressing the Diplomatic Community, Tuggar expressed appreciation for the enduring partnership between Nigeria and the international community, noting that the country’s diplomacy in 2026 would be anchored on dialogue over division and cooperation over confrontation amid global geopolitical recalibration.
He outlined three key pillars guiding Nigeria’s foreign policy this year: Strategic Autonomy, Regional Stability, and Responsible Global Partnership.
On economic diplomacy, the Minister highlighted Nigeria’s sustained investment outreach and sector-focused partnerships across infrastructure, agriculture, energy, digital connectivity, and industrial development. He referenced the inaugural West Africa Economic Summit convened on the margins of the Economic Community of West African States @50 celebrations, describing it as part of efforts to deepen regional trade integration, strengthen infrastructure connectivity, and promote private sector-led growth.
On democratic governance and regional stability, Tuggar emphasised Nigeria’s collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme under the Regional Partnership for Democracy initiatives aimed at strengthening democratic institutions, promoting electoral integrity, and reinforcing inclusive governance across West Africa and the Sahel. He reiterated that security in the Sahel remains a strategic priority and called for stronger, outcome-driven partnerships.
The Minister also pointed to encouraging macroeconomic indicators, citing reforms including a unified foreign exchange regime, strengthened capital markets, and modernised fiscal frameworks, which he said are positioning Nigeria as a competitive destination for long-term global investment.
Reaffirming Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and a rules-based international order, he sought the continued support of the Diplomatic Community for Nigeria’s international candidacies, including its bids for the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women, the United Nations Human Rights Council, non-permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council for 2030, and the World Heritage Committee for 2029.
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In a procedural update to enhance diplomatic efficiency, Tuggar announced that ambassadors-designate may commence official duties upon presenting copies of their Letters of Credence to the Chief of Protocol, pending formal presentation to the President and Vice President.
The reception provided an opportunity to exchange New Year greetings, renew diplomatic goodwill, and strengthen engagement between Nigeria and its international partners, underscoring Nigeria’s resolve to remain a confident and stabilising actor in regional and global affairs in 2026.
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