Poverty and inequality are fast becoming the greatest threats to global peace and stability, according to Nigeria’s former Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations in New York, Ambassador Usman Sarki. He made this clear during the 2025 edition of the Diplomatic Dialogue Series hosted by the Department of International Relations and Diplomacy at Afe Babalola University in Ado-Ekiti.
Ambassador Sarki told participants that the unchecked exploitation of natural resources—especially in Africa—has created deep divisions in societies, particularly in countries like Nigeria. These cracks, he warned, could erupt into serious conflicts and stress if not addressed with thoughtful and sensitive action. He explained that inequality in areas such as income, gender, age, and access to opportunities is often the root of unrest and social breakdown.
While delivering a lecture titled “The United Nations at 80 Years of Existence: The Achievements and Challenges in Global Peace and Security in the 21st Century,” Sarki pointed out that the global economic system favors profit over social good. He described rising inequality as a direct outcome of this imbalance, warning that such disparities are laying the groundwork for future conflict and insecurity.
The former diplomat also highlighted the dangers posed by the current state of international trade. He said the imposition of tariffs and the restriction of trade privileges among countries, led initially by the United States in its trade dispute with China, are beginning to unravel the global trading system. Though the full consequences are yet to be felt, he noted that developing countries like Nigeria, which heavily rely on imported goods and raw material exports, could face serious economic strain.
Sarki cautioned that for these nations, shifting toward a more diverse and self-reliant economy would be a costly and difficult journey, especially if foreign investments slow down due to economic uncertainty. He likened trade wars to blunt instruments that tend to inflict damage across the board, often harming those not even involved in the conflict.
Speaking after the lecture, the university’s founder, Aare Afe Babalola, commended Ambassador Sarki for shedding light on the deeper causes of instability. He noted that Nigeria would be a far better place if the issues raised were taken seriously and tackled with decisive action.
