Armed forces praised for triumphs in anti-insurgency struggle, according to Tinubu at TICAD9 event

In a significant display of international solidarity, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba recently convened at the ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9). Both leaders emphasised the importance of peace, stability, and sustainable development in Africa.

Tinubu, in his address, highlighted the critical role of national stability in development. He stressed that peace and stability are essential to Africa's progress, underscoring his administration's commitment to tackling insecurity through stronger governance and economic reforms.

The Nigerian President also noted ongoing investment in infrastructure, institutional reform, and partnerships with civil society and global allies as crucial to uplifting Nigerians' quality of life. He urged Africa to demand fair and equitable representation in the United Nations Security Council, a just and fair demand encapsulated in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration. Tinubu believes Africa deserves additional seats in the non-permanent seat category, as well as two seats in the Permanent Category, with all its prerogatives and privileges, including the Right of Veto.

On the other hand, Prime Minister Ishiba reiterated the importance of locally-rooted development strategies shaped through mutual understanding and co-creation. He supported Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia at TICAD9 to promote private-sector-led sustainable development, youth and women's empowerment, and regional integration in Africa. Ishiba also announced a new economic partnership with the African Development Bank, promising up to $5.5 billion.

In the Peace and Stability plenary, Tinubu cited recent peace agreements in the Congo as a sign that new mediation approaches, tied to economic opportunities, can succeed. He also stated that governments must display the courage to be tough, not only on terror, but on the causes of terror.

Tinubu also highlighted the potential of information and technology as tools for global trust, urging international cooperation to harness tech for peace, not division. He emphasised that inclusivity and diversity under the rule of law are Nigeria's strengths.

Prime Minister Ishiba underscored the need for mutual understanding, local solutions, and global collaboration for Africa's growth. He praised Africa's demographic advantage and urged the continent to harness it through industrialisation and job creation. Ishiba appealed for Africa's support as Japan faces a population crisis and shrinking agricultural land, threatening future growth.

In a show of solidarity, President Tinubu praised the Nigerian Armed Forces for their success in fighting insurgency and criminality. Both leaders concluded the conference with a shared vision for a peaceful, prosperous, and technologically advanced Africa.

Armed forces praised for triumphs in anti-insurgency struggle, according to Tinubu at TICAD9 event