President Bola Tinubu is calling for at least two permanent seats for Africa on the United Nations Security Council, with veto powers.

Tinubu made the demand in his address to the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima.

He also called for five non-permanent seats for Africa, arguing that the current structure of the Security Council reflects the balance of power from 1945 rather than today’s world.

Tinubu said Nigeria was ready to take on greater responsibility in international peace and security, citing its contributions to peacekeeping and mediation across Africa.

He also called for stronger international cooperation against terrorism, organised crime, cyberattacks and illicit financial activities.

On climate change, the President said developing countries should be allowed to industrialise and expand energy access while receiving adequate support for cleaner development.

He said Nigeria remains committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2060 through its Energy Transition Plan.

Tinubu also called for responsible use of artificial intelligence, saying the technology could transform sectors including healthcare, education, agriculture and governance.

He urged international partners to work with Nigerian youths to direct AI towards development and human progress.

The President further called for reforms to the international financial system, including greater access to concessional financing and debt sustainability frameworks that recognise the needs of developing countries.