US President Joe Biden recently voiced support for Nigeria’s bid for a permanent position on the United Nations Security Council, emphasizing that the country is a key player on the African continent and globally.

Biden expressed the United States backing for Africa to secure two permanent seats on the council, stressing the need for African representation in decisions that impact international peace and security.

Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Yusuf Tuggar, shared details of the conversation between Biden and President Bola Tinubu, which took place on Tuesday evening.

Tuggar explained that Biden expressed his strong belief that Nigeria deserved a seat at the table, joining other nations with the power to influence critical global security matters directly.

According to the minister, Biden highlighted Nigeria’s regional influence, growing economy, and role in peacekeeping efforts across Africa as factors that underscore its importance in global discussions.

The call, lasting around 30 minutes, touched on various topics, including the release of Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance.

Gambaryan’s release on October 23 brought attention to the challenges in tackling international financial crimes, an issue both leaders acknowledged as significant.

This development aligns with the longstanding calls from African nations for more equitable representation within the United Nations Security Council.

With only three rotational seats among the council’s 15 members, Africa has often pushed for permanent representation to give the continent a stronger voice in global security decisions.

Biden’s statements reflect an American interest in supporting this cause, possibly recognizing that African nations have much to contribute to global stability.

The UN General Assembly currently elects five non-permanent members each year from different regions for a two-year term, but permanent members wield more influence, with veto power and long-term influence over global policies.