Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has issued a powerful condemnation of the global system, declaring that it has repeatedly failed Africa and other developing nations.
Speaking at Chatham House in London on Tuesday, Tuggar called for a complete overhaul of international frameworks, arguing that the current order prioritizes powerful nations at the expense of others.
“The existential threat to multilateralism and the rules-based international order—is it really as new as it might seem?” he asked, highlighting conflicts in Sudan, eastern Congo, and the Sahel as glaring evidence of a broken system.
Tuggar criticized the United Nations and other global institutions, accusing them of offering little beyond humanitarian aid while failing to provide lasting solutions to crises plaguing Africa.
“The UN is barely able to manage humanitarian support, let alone stop conflicts or prevent the next one.”
COVID-19 pandemic
Turning to the COVID-19 pandemic, the minister exposed the glaring inequality in how resources were distributed, pointing out that wealthier nations hoarded vaccines while developing countries struggled.
“Memories may fade, but the pandemic response made one thing clear—some partners were much more equal than others.”
Tuggar argued that the pandemic laid bare the flaws of multilateralism, showing that when crisis strikes, global solidarity crumbles and the world’s poorest nations are left behind.
Demanded reforms
Beyond security and health crises, Tuggar demanded reforms in the global financial system, citing the Basel IV regulations, limited market access, and unequal capital distribution as key barriers preventing Africa’s economic progress.
“We know the playing field is not level. And we know the limits of partnership.”
He emphasized that the rules of global finance disproportionately favor developed nations, stifling Africa’s potential and deepening economic disparity.
Questioned the legitimacy
In a striking critique of international governance, Tuggar questioned the legitimacy of the so-called rules-based order, asserting that it no longer serves the interests of developing nations.
“We need to be honest—the rules-based international order is working less and less for more and more people.”
He warned that unless urgent reforms are made, global cooperation will continue to weaken, leading to further instability.
Bold transformation
Calling for a bold transformation of global institutions, Tuggar urged world leaders to rethink international partnerships, ensuring that Africa and other developing regions are no longer sidelined.
“Nigeria has been arguing that we must adapt systems, agencies, and rules to remain true to the values that once made them successful. The world is changing, and we must change with it.”
His powerful remarks underscore Nigeria’s growing determination to challenge the status quo, pushing for an international system that truly serves all nations, not just the privileged few.
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