Nigeria has begun its tenure as chair of the African Union (AU) Peace and Security Council for May 2026, marking another key role for the country in continental security coordination.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the development, noting that Nigeria last held the position in December 2022. Officials say the new appointment reflects Nigeria’s long-standing involvement in the council since its establishment in 2004.

According to the ministry spokesperson, Nigeria’s experience on the council is expected to strengthen its leadership during the month-long assignment, especially as it engages with ongoing security concerns across Africa.

As chair, Nigeria will guide discussions on a wide range of pressing issues affecting the continent. These include the worsening effects of climate change on conflict-prone regions such as the Lake Chad Basin and the Sahel, as well as strategies to tackle transnational organised crime.

Other priority areas on the agenda include finalising a continental counter-terrorism action plan, improving the effectiveness of the African Standby Force, and strengthening maritime security efforts to address piracy in the Gulf of Guinea.

The council, formally known as the African Union Peace and Security Council, is made up of 15 member states elected to serve staggered terms, representing different regions of the continent. Current members include Nigeria, South Africa, Ethiopia, Algeria, and several others.

Nigeria’s role as chair is expected to influence key decisions on peace operations and security coordination across Africa throughout the month.