Nigeria Secures Permanent Seat on African Central Bank Board at AU Executive Council

Nigeria has recorded major diplomatic gains at the 39th Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, securing a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank and reinforcing its influence in continental economic, governance, and security affairs.

The development was confirmed in a statement issued Friday by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, who described the outcome as a landmark achievement that underscores Nigeria’s strategic importance in shaping Africa’s financial architecture.

According to the statement, the Council’s decision also grants Nigeria representation on the Board of the Technical Convergence Committee of the African Monetary Institute, the institution designated to serve as a precursor to the establishment of the African Central Bank. The government said the move affirms Nigeria’s technical capacity, economic weight, and commitment to advancing Africa’s monetary integration agenda.

In the area of peace and security, the session also witnessed the successful election of candidates jointly endorsed by the Economic Community of West African States to the AU Peace and Security Council. Officials said the outcome reflects strong regional cohesion and a shared commitment among West African states to promoting stability and collective security across the continent.

Nigeria also used the platform to advance democratic governance initiatives, hosting a Ministerial High-Level Panel Discussion on Regional Partnerships for Democracy. The event drew ministers, senior government officials, and delegates from across Africa and the international community, and focused on strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive governance, and enhancing regional collaboration to sustain democratic values.

The Foreign Affairs Ministry stated that Nigeria’s participation and outcomes at the session reaffirm the country’s commitment to the AU’s core objectives, particularly economic integration, institutional development, peace, security, and democratic governance.

It added that the Federal Government remains committed to working closely with member states and regional bodies to advance shared prosperity and sustainable development across Africa.