The Traffic

A Visionary Speech: President Tinubu's Call for Multilateralism and Cooperation in China

Reviewed 

Yakubu Haruna Yakubu 

President Tinubu's speech at the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) High-Level Segment on Peace and Security in Beijing, China, was a masterclass in diplomacy, vision, and leadership. The Nigerian President's address was a clarion call for multilateralism, cooperation, and collective action to address the complex global challenges facing humanity.

Tinubu's speech was notable for its emphasis on the need for a shared future built on collaboration, mutual respect, and inclusiveness. He astutely observed that the world has evolved beyond an era dominated by unilateralism and protectionism, and that cooperative partnerships are essential for addressing the root causes of conflict and laying the foundation for global peace, security, and prosperity.

The President's praise for China's initiatives, such as the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and FOCAC, was well-deserved, given their transformative impact on Africa's infrastructure and economic ties between China and Africa. His expression of confidence in the potential for even greater achievements through enhanced mutual trust and strategic alliances was a testament to the strength of Nigeria-China relations.

As the current Chair of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), Tinubu's commitment to fostering a shared future built on collaboration was evident throughout the speech. His highlighting of Nigeria's pivotal role in ECOWAS's evolution, from an economic bloc to a security framework for West Africa, was a proud moment for the country.

The President's approach to fostering peace and stability in West Africa, combining military intervention, diplomatic engagement, dialogue, negotiation, and economic collaboration, was comprehensive and well-articulated. His assurance that Nigeria will continue strengthening its efforts to support a more secure and prosperous West Africa was reassuring.

Tinubu's speech also acknowledged the African Union's (AU) consistent advocacy for global peace, particularly through its "Silencing the Guns" initiative. His call for rethinking global governance and economic development approaches to achieve lasting peace and security was timely and urgent.

In conclusion, President Tinubu's speech at FOCAC was a tour de force, demonstrating his mastery of global politics, diplomacy, and leadership. His vision for a shared future built on multilateralism, cooperation, and collective action is a beacon of hope for a more peaceful and prosperous world. As Nigeria continues to play a pivotal role in regional and global affairs, Tinubu's speech will be remembered as a defining moment in the country's diplomatic history.