Deputy Speaker of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, has called for a redefinition of multilateralism to better address the pressing developmental needs of the Global South, particularly Africa.
Speaking at the Heads of Parliaments meeting at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, a preparatory session for the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament in Geneva this July, Kalu stressed that the current multilateral framework is predominantly influenced by the Global North, sidelining developing nations grappling with critical economic and industrial challenges.
Kalu urged the United Nations to grant Africa, with Nigeria at the forefront, a permanent seat on the Security Council to ensure equitable representation in global decision-making.
“Multilateralism, as it stands, is being driven by the Global North while the Global South continues to face daunting developmental issues,” Kalu asserted. “In Nigeria, we have a saying: you cannot shave a man’s head in his absence. Developing countries need to be present and active in conversations that shape their future.”
Using the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) as an example, Kalu highlighted the disconnect between the aspirations of global frameworks and the immediate priorities of developing nations, which are still striving for industrialisation and economic growth. With just five years left to achieve the SDGs, he noted that many of these targets are ambitious for countries still battling debt burdens and economic hurdles.
Kalu emphasised that expanding the voices in global discussions to include more representation from the Global South is imperative to achieving truly global aspirations through multilateralism.
Addressing presiding officers from parliaments worldwide, Kalu stressed that without inclusivity and cooperation, multilateralism would remain a mere theoretical concept. He called for an amendment to Article 108 of the UN Charter to create space for Africa on the Security Council, highlighting the continent’s unique challenges and the need for tailored global policies.
“If we must preach multilateralism, it’s time to amend the UN Charter and give Africa a seat at the table,” Kalu stated. “Africa’s burden of debt and developmental struggles must be acknowledged and addressed through inclusive global cooperation.”
Kalu expressed gratitude to the President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), Rt. Hon. Tulia Ackson, Secretary-General Martin Chungong, and global parliamentary leaders for fostering dialogue aimed at addressing these critical issues.
With his passionate advocacy, Kalu has placed Nigeria and Africa firmly on the global stage, championing a more inclusive and equitable multilateral system.
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