Sub-Saharan Africa’s biggest economies — Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa — used their platforms at the 80th United Nations General Assembly to press for sweeping reforms to global governance, with all three leaders demanding a restructured and more inclusive UN Security Council.
Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima argued that his country deserves a permanent seat on the Council, citing its population size, peacekeeping record, and regional influence.
Kenya’s President William Ruto went further, insisting Africa must gain at least two permanent seats with veto power, alongside two additional non-permanent seats.
South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa echoed the call, urging text-based negotiations on comprehensive reform, warning that the Security Council in its current form is unfit for purpose.
The three leaders represent countries that are not just regional heavyweights but also key players on the continent’s economic and political stage.
Nigeria is Africa’s most populous country, home to more than 230 million people, and one of its largest oil producers. It has long been a central actor in peacekeeping missions across West Africa.
South Africa, the continent’s most industrialized nation, is a member of the BRICS bloc and has significant diplomatic clout in shaping Global South agendas.
Kenya, East Africa’s largest economy, is a hub for trade, technology, and diplomacy, hosting major UN offices in Nairobi and positioning itself as a bridge between Africa and the global system.
Together, the three economies account for a significant share of Sub-Saharan Africa’s GDP and influence, giving weight to their calls for reforms that would give Africa a stronger voice in shaping international security, economic policy, and climate action.
