The Nigerian government has firmly opposed a proposal to restructure the African Union (AU) by splitting the Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS), warning that such a move could destabilize the AU’s peace and security framework and lead to unnecessary expenditures.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, the government reaffirmed its commitment to meaningful reforms that would enhance the effectiveness of the AU while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
President Bola Tinubu’s stance was conveyed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, during deliberations on AU reforms. Tinubu commended Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Kenyan President William Ruto for their reform proposals and supported the establishment of a Heads of State and Government Oversight Committee, to be chaired by President Ruto.
However, Tinubu rejected the proposal to create a new department from PAPS, currently led by Nigerian diplomat Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, who was recently re-elected at the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly.
“We do not support the reconfiguration of PAPS as currently proposed, as it would only increase costs unnecessarily. Creating another department from the existing structure would destabilize AU’s political affairs and peace process,” Tinubu stated through Ambassador Tuggar.
Nigeria also backed a proposal to limit the AU Summit agenda to three strategic items, emphasizing the need for focus and efficiency in decision-making. Tinubu further urged a phased approach to AU reforms, advocating for the implementation of already agreed-upon policies rather than engaging in prolonged consultations.
“It is in this connection that Nigeria wishes to reiterate that instead of seeking to reach consensus on all fronts of our reform at one sweep, we should concentrate on areas where we have already reached consensus,” Tinubu stated.
Bayo Onanuga reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to AU reforms as long as they remain transparent, inclusive, and do not destabilize existing structures.
The statement underscores Nigeria’s position as a key player in shaping the future of the AU, advocating for reforms that strengthen the union without undermining its stability.
Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy)
February 16, 2025
Nigeria Rejects AU Department Split, Calls for Transparent Reforms
The Nigerian government has firmly opposed a proposal to restructure the African Union (AU) by splitting the Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS), warning that such a move could destabilize the AU’s peace and security framework and lead to unnecessary expenditures.
In a statement released by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information & Strategy, the government reaffirmed its commitment to meaningful reforms that would enhance the effectiveness of the AU while ensuring fiscal responsibility.
President Bola Tinubu’s stance was conveyed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, during deliberations on AU reforms. Tinubu commended Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Kenyan President William Ruto for their reform proposals and supported the establishment of a Heads of State and Government Oversight Committee, to be chaired by President Ruto.
However, Tinubu rejected the proposal to create a new department from PAPS, currently led by Nigerian diplomat Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, who was recently re-elected at the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly.
“We do not support the reconfiguration of PAPS as currently proposed, as it would only increase costs unnecessarily. Creating another department from the existing structure would destabilize AU’s political affairs and peace process,” Tinubu stated through Ambassador Tuggar.
Nigeria also backed a proposal to limit the AU Summit agenda to three strategic items, emphasizing the need for focus and efficiency in decision-making. Tinubu further urged a phased approach to AU reforms, advocating for the implementation of already agreed-upon policies rather than engaging in prolonged consultations.
“It is in this connection that Nigeria wishes to reiterate that instead of seeking to reach consensus on all fronts of our reform at one sweep, we should concentrate on areas where we have already reached consensus,” Tinubu stated.
Bayo Onanuga reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to AU reforms as long as they remain transparent, inclusive, and do not destabilize existing structures.
The statement underscores Nigeria’s position as a key player in shaping the future of the AU, advocating for reforms that strengthen the union without undermining its stability.
