Nigeria has emerged a member of the United Nations Security Council, alongside Saudi Arabi, Chad, Chile and Lithuania, who also won seats in the election today.
All five countries contested unopposed in the election, and will replace Azerbaijan, Guatemala, Morocco, Pakistan and Togo on the 15-nation council on 1st January 2013.
Expectedly, President Goodluck Jonathan has already welcomed the development, saying it is testament to recognition of the country’s efforts in promoting peace, security and political stability on the continent.
“President Goodluck Ebele Jonathan welcomes Nigeria’s election today to a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council with a total of 186 out of a possible 193 votes,” Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Dr. Reuben Abati wrote in a statement.
“On behalf of the Federal Government and people of Nigeria, President Jonathan wishes to convey his sincere appreciation of the support of all member-countries of the United Nations who voted for Nigeria’s election to the Security Council.
“The president believes that today’s endorsement of Nigeria’s candidature for the Security Council seat by the vast majority of member-countries is a glowing expression of support and encouragement for Nigeria’s active participation in the promotion of peace, security and political stability in Africa and other parts of the world.
“This is the fourth time since it became independent in 1960 that Nigeria is being elected to the UN Security Council. It is also the second time (2010-2011 and 2014-2015) that Nigeria will be elected to the Council under the Jonathan Presidency.
“The president is particularly delighted by this historic victory and assures the global community that Nigeria, under his leadership, will continue to make very significant contributions towards the achievement and sustenance of global peace and security.”
