Akasoba Duke-Abiola UN Secretary-General candidacy

The African Policy and Research Consortium (APRC) has formally endorsed Nigerian law professor and human rights advocate Akasoba Duke-Abiola for the position of United Nations Secretary-General, a role to be vacated by António Guterres at the end of 2026. The APRC called on Nigerian President Bola Tinubu to submit an official nomination to the UN Security Council.

Following the endorsement, Duke-Abiola accepted the nomination, describing it as a “solemn call to serve” and expressing her commitment to advocating for women, children, and vulnerable communities. Supporters highlight her background as a British-trained international lawyer with experience in governance, peace, security, and public administration, including roles within the Nigerian Presidency and the Nigeria Police Force.

While the campaign claims growing institutional and political support across Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America, Duke-Abiola is not currently among the eight formally nominated contenders on the official United Nations list. Because UN nominations must be submitted by member states, current momentum reflects growing political interest rather than formal registration in the selection process.