President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Wednesday in Yokohama, Japan, commended the Nigerian armed forces for their progress in the fight against insurgency and criminality, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to tackling the root causes of insecurity through strengthened security apparatus and ongoing economic reforms. Speaking during the plenary session on Peace and Stability at the 9th Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9), the President said inclusivity, diversity, and adherence to the rule of law remain Nigeria’s greatest strengths.

Highlighting the link between security and development, Tinubu stressed that recent momentum in the armed forces serves as a springboard for national growth and stability. He urged governments to be courageous not only in confronting terror but also in addressing the underlying socio-economic conditions that fuel unrest. He cited recent peace pacts in the Congo as an example of how mediation tied to investment could yield lasting results, while calling for fresh approaches to conflict resolution across Africa.

President Tinubu also appealed for greater market-driven partnerships and cooperation instead of reliance on aid, while urging Japan and other global partners to back Africa’s push for reforms at the United Nations. He reiterated Nigeria’s demand for two permanent seats with veto rights for Africa and additional non-permanent seats on the Security Council, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, in his opening remarks, had earlier outlined Japan’s focus on private sector-led growth, youth empowerment, and regional integration, announcing a new $5.5 billion economic framework in collaboration with the African Development Bank.