Nigeria has achieved a landmark diplomatic and economic victory at the just‑concluded 39th Session of the Executive Council of the African Union (AU), securing a permanent seat on the Board of the African Central Bank, a move that positions the country at the heart of Africa’s evolving financial and monetary integration architecture.
Announced thiy on Friday 13th February, ,2026 by Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, the decision also grants Nigeria representation on the Board of the Technical Convergence Committee of the African Monetary Institute, the preparatory body for the eventual launch of the African Central Bank.
“This landmark development underscores Nigeria’s strategic role in shaping Africa’s financial architecture and advancing continental monetary integration,” the minister said in a statement released at the summit.
While highlighting the Diplomatic and Regional Gains, the Minister said beyond its financial coup, Nigeria played a significant role in advancing peace, security, and democratic governance at the summit:
Also at the summiy, Candidates backed by the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) were successfully elected to the AU Peace and Security Council, a result observers say reflects strong regional cohesion and collective commitment to stability across the continent.
Nigeria hosted a high‑level panel discussion on Regional Partnerships for Democracy, drawing ministers, senior officials, and delegates from across Africa and the international community. The forum focused on strengthening democratic institutions, fostering inclusive governance, and enhancing regional cooperation.
The outcomes of the AU Executive Council session are being hailed by Nigeria’s government as proof of the country’s growing influence in continental affairs. Officials say the new ACB board seat will deepen Nigeria’s involvement in shaping economic policy on the continent and reflect its enduring commitment to the African Union’s goals of integration, peace, security, and democratic governance.
Nigeria’s Foreign Ministry stressed that the government remains dedicated to collaborative efforts with AU member states and regional bodies to drive shared prosperity and sustainable development across Africa.
