By BONIFACE AKARAH

Nigeria has secured a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank following deliberations at the 39th Session of the Executive Council of the African Union, marking a major diplomatic and institutional milestone for the country’s role in continental economic governance.

In a statement dated February 13, 2026, and issued by the Federal Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the government said the decision reinforces Nigeria’s leadership in advancing Africa’s economic integration, peace, security, and democratic governance, while also extending the country’s representation to the Board of the Technical Convergence Committee of the African Monetary Institute, a precursor to the African Central Bank. “These developments affirm Nigeria’s technical capacity, economic significance, and commitment to advancing Africa’s monetary integration agenda,” the ministry stated.

On regional security, the ministry disclosed that candidates jointly endorsed by the Economic Community of West African States were elected into the Peace and Security Council, describing the outcome as evidence of “strong cohesion, cooperation, and unity among ECOWAS Member States” and a shared resolve to promote continental stability.

The statement further noted that Nigeria demonstrated leadership in strengthening democratic governance by convening a ministerial high-level panel discussion on regional partnerships for democracy, which attracted ministers, senior officials, and international delegates. According to the ministry, the forum enabled “constructive dialogue on strengthening democratic institutions, fostering inclusive governance, and enhancing collaborative regional approaches to sustaining democratic values.”

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, said Nigeria remains committed to working with member states and regional bodies to advance Africa’s shared prosperity and sustainable development, adding that the outcomes of the Executive Council session reaffirm the country’s dedication to the core ideals of the African Union.

The development underscores Nigeria’s expanding influence in shaping Africa’s financial architecture and broader continental policy direction.

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