Nigeria has called on United Nations member states to put an end to “unnecessary” and prolonged conflicts that result in civilian casualties and unbearable suffering globally.

Nasir Kwarra, chairman of the National Population Commission (NPC), made this appeal during the 79th Third Committee Plenary Meeting of the UN General Assembly in New York.

Mr Kwarra emphasised the need for collective action among member states to ensure peace, unity, and security worldwide.

He condemned the humanitarian catastrophe and continuous loss of civilian lives, particularly defenceless women and children, caught in wars worldwide.

The chairman also advocated for increased collaboration between member states, UN agencies, and partners to tackle multiple global crises and eradicate poverty.

“Nigeria calls on member states and the larger international community to bring an end to unnecessary and protracted conflicts that bring about civilian casualties and intolerable sufferings, collectively ensure peace, unity and security in the world,” said Mr Kwarra.

He noted that the world faces multidimensional challenges that no single nation could solve alone.

“The theme of this year’s General Assembly, ‘Unity and Diversity for Advancing Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity, Everywhere and for All,’ underscores that significant work remains to fulfil the promise of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and Agenda 2030,” said Mr Kwarra.

Speaking about climate change, Mr Kwarra stated that the world faces many crises, including humanitarian, economic, social, food, and climate-related challenges, which pose significant obstacles to social development policies.

He emphasised that member states must collaborate to implement effective policies, ensuring people’s self-sufficiency and protection from poverty.

Noting that many developing countries were on the brink of famine, Mr Kwarra urged the UN and its agencies to continue advocating for inclusive, equitable, and sustainable development.

Regarding Nigeria’s progress, Mr Kwarra highlighted the federal government’s commitment to leaving no one behind, prioritising the inclusion of vulnerable populations in all development programs and frameworks.

“This is achieved through building a robust and globally competitive economy,” Mr Kwarra added.

(NAN)