President Mohammadu Buhari
By DAVID IORJA, Abuja –
President Muhammadu Buhari has called for a more comprehensive reform of the structures and operations of the African Union (AU), to make it more functional in meeting targets.
In an intervention at the ongoing two-day 34th Summit of the AU, held virtually, the President also warned that the organization would become stale, except it becomes more result oriented.
Senior Special Assistant to the President (Media & Publicity), Garba Shehu, in a statement on Sunday, quoted Buhari as saying:
“As we commence the operationalization of this new structure and system, Nigeria demands a truly reformed, efficient and effective AU Commission, one that is fully committed to the discharge of its duties and responsibilities.’’
President Buhari commended President Paul Kagame of Rwanda for presenting a special report on the need to reform the AU.
He also appreciated the support of Heads of State and Government of the African Union in the election of Amb. Bankole Adeoye as Commissioner, Political Affairs, Peace and Security.
President Buhari noted with gratitude, the overwhelming and historic endorsement of the ambassador with 55 votes, an indication that all the members voted, while congratulating the career diplomat, who also serves as Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the AU and UNECA.
President Buhari urged Amb. Adeoye to deploy his knowledge and experience in foreign policy and diplomacy, particularly on bilateral and multilateral issues, to bring value to the new position, with an assurance of the country’s support.
He congratulated all elected members of the African Union Commission, 2021, which include the Chairman, Moussa Faki Mahamat, Chad, and Deputy Chairman, Dr Monique Nsanzabaganwa, Rwanda.