President Bola Ahmed Tinubu says terrorists despise Nigeria because it has chosen tolerance over tyranny, adding that the country’s harsh experience with insurgency proves that violence never ends where it begins.
This message was delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, who represented Tinubu at the 80th United Nations General Assembly in New York on Wednesday.
Addressing global security threats, Shettima said terrorists aim to spread hate and division, but Nigeria continues to stand for unity, peace, and human dignity.
“We are despised by terrorists because we choose tolerance over tyranny,” he stated.
“Their goal is to divide us with hate, but our response is rooted in compassion and order.”
Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s fight against terrorism is not just a legal obligation but a moral one, shaped by years of painful conflict at home. He added that the country not only combats violence but also cares for innocent victims of war.
In the Israel-Palestine conflict, Nigeria reaffirmed its support for a two-state solution as the most respectful and lasting route to peace.
“Palestinians are not collateral damage. They are human beings entitled to dignity and freedom,” Shettima said.
Domestically, he noted that peace requires hard economic reforms, pointing to recent government actions like the removal of subsidies and currency controls to rebalance the economy and promote growth.
“Peace comes at a cost. We’ve had to choose between short-term comforts and long-term stability. Our bet is on prosperity,” he explained.
Shettima also highlighted the success of the West Africa Economic Summit held earlier in Abuja, saying it showcased the region’s potential when driven by innovation.
He called on the UN to rethink how it allocates resources, especially in tackling climate change, which he warned is no longer just an environmental issue but a security threat with serious implications for migration and global stability.
The UN session, which runs until September 28, will feature over 150 world leaders. Nigeria is expected to unveil new commitments under the Paris Agreement and participate in several key diplomatic events.
