Nigeria Opposes AU Proposal to Split Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Department



The Nigerian government has reaffirmed its commitment to African Union (AU) reforms aimed at making the continental body more effective and responsive to the needs of member states amid evolving global political and economic dynamics.

President Bola Tinubu, through a statement delivered by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, expressed support for the AU reform proposals championed by Rwandan President Paul Kagame and Kenyan President William Ruto. The reforms seek to enhance the AU’s efficiency and strategic focus.

Nigeria’s Position on AU Reforms

President Tinubu acknowledged the recommendations outlined in the draft decision on AU reforms and endorsed key proposals, including:

The establishment of a Heads of State and Government Oversight Committee for AU reforms under President Ruto’s leadership.

Limiting the AU Summit agenda to a maximum of three strategic items for improved efficiency.


However, Nigeria strongly opposed the proposal to restructure the Department of Political Affairs, Peace, and Security (PAPS) by creating a separate department. The department is currently headed by Nigerian diplomat Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, who was recently re-elected at the 38th Ordinary Session of the AU Assembly of Heads of State and Government.

Reasons for Nigeria’s Opposition

In his address, President Tinubu outlined Nigeria’s concerns regarding the proposed restructuring of PAPS:

Unnecessary financial burden: The reconfiguration would lead to additional expenditure without clear benefits.

Structural disruption: A Peace Support Operations Directorate already exists under PAPS, and creating an independent department would destabilize AU’s peace and security framework.

Lack of proper consultation: The proposal was not adequately discussed with AU member states before being included in the reform agenda.


Call for a Phased and Transparent Reform Process

President Tinubu emphasized the need for inclusiveness and transparency in AU reforms, urging the organization to focus on implementing already adopted policies and programs rather than making sweeping changes without consensus.

"It is in this connection that Nigeria wishes to reiterate that instead of seeking to reach consensus on all fronts of our reform at one sweep, we should concentrate on areas where we have already reached consensus. There is no harm in carrying out reform in phases. It would be an error to continue seeking consultation on all fronts in perpetuity," Tinubu stated.

Nigeria reaffirmed its support for AU reforms as long as they remain transparent, inclusive, and do not destabilize existing structures.


Bayo Onanuga
Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy)
February 16, 2025


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