Nigeria Takes Lead in Global Nuclear Disarmament Talks, Seeks Stronger Protection for Non-Nuclear States
By Omoyeni Ojeifo
The Federal Government says Nigeria will use its Presidency of the Conference on Disarmament (CD) to push stronger protections for non-nuclear-weapon states and promote reforms aimed at revitalising the global disarmament body.
Nigeria formally assumed the Presidency of the Conference on Disarmament on May 26, 2026, marking what officials described as another important opportunity for the country to contribute to international peace, security, and multilateral diplomacy.
This was disclosed in a statement by the spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Kimiebi Ebienfa Imomotimi, on Wednesday, obtained by Persecondnews.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Amb. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, approved two thematic priorities to guide Nigeria’s leadership of the world’s sole multilateral disarmament negotiating forum.
“The first priority focuses on effective international arrangements to assure non-nuclear-weapon states against the use or threat of use of nuclear weapons, otherwise known as Negative Security Assurances,” the statement said.
The theme reflects Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to global peace, nuclear disarmament, and the protection of non-nuclear-weapon states, while also aligning with the country’s foreign policy objective of promoting a rules-based international order.
The ministry further stated that the second priority centres on improving the effectiveness and functioning of the Conference on Disarmament through institutional revitalisation and stronger multilateral engagement.
It said the initiative is aimed at strengthening the relevance and responsiveness of the conference in addressing evolving global security challenges.
It added that a more effective disarmament architecture would contribute to international stability, sustainable development, and a safer future for coming generations.
Nigeria also pledged to work with member-states in a spirit of dialogue, cooperation, and consensus-building throughout its Presidency.