By: Joseph James Udoh | Columnist | WBN NEWS Africa | July 28, 2026

Nigeria and the African Union (AU) have reaffirmed their shared commitment to strengthening regional security, economic development and artificial intelligence (AI) cooperation following high-level meetings held on the sidelines of the 49th Ordinary Session of the Executive Council of the African Union in Addis Ababa.

The discussions were led by Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, who met separately with AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Dr. Bankole Adeoye, and African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf. Their talks focused on addressing security challenges across West Africa and the Sahel while exploring new opportunities for economic transformation, youth empowerment and technology-driven development.

Speaking after her meeting with Adeoye, Odumegwu-Ojukwu highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in tackling evolving threats.

“We discussed regional security situations in West Africa and the Sahel, Nigeria’s regional role in the evolving geopolitical dynamics and the challenges facing peace support operations in Africa in general,” she said.

The discussions also underscored Nigeria’s long-standing role in promoting peace and democratic governance across the continent. The minister noted that Nigeria has served on the AU Peace and Security Council for the past 22 years and remains committed to opposing unconstitutional changes of government while supporting regional stability initiatives.

One key area of focus was Nigeria’s continued backing of the Multinational Joint Task Force (MNJTF), which combats terrorism and insecurity in the Lake Chad Basin. The African Union has committed approximately $21.1 million to support the force’s operations while advancing preventive strategies aimed at reducing conflict before it escalates.

Beyond traditional security measures, the meetings reflected Africa’s growing interest in harnessing emerging technologies to strengthen peacekeeping efforts. Adeoye advocated for the full operationalization of the African Standby Force and emphasized the need to build capacity for AI-enabled drones and modern conflict-management systems.

The conversations signal a broader vision for an Africa where innovation, strong institutions and regional partnerships work together to tackle both current and future challenges. As Nigeria and the AU deepen their collaboration, their shared commitment offers renewed hope for a more secure, technologically advanced and prosperous continent.

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TAG: #Nigeria #African Union #Security #AI #Sahel #Peace #Diplomacy #WBN Africa #Africa Edition #WBN Africa News #WBN News Africa #Joseph James Udoh

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