The scholars, who spoke to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Sunday in Lagos commended the gesture shown by Britain, describing it as a welcome development.
Britain was said to have thrown its weight behind Nigeria’s bid, ahead of South Africa and Ghana, who were also interested in the exalted position.
Nigeria was said to have made remarkable contributions in peace-keeping operations not only in Africa but the world at large.
Prof. Solomon Akinboye, Head of Department of Political Science, University of Lagos, told NAN that the development was in the right direction, adding that it was a sign of good things to come.
Akinboye said that being a former colonial master, Britain was abreast of the huge potential of Nigeria as a regional and international force.
He said that for Britain, which was already a respected member of the UN to pitch tent with Nigeria to have a permanent seat, meant that the country was respected among the comity of nations.
``This action simply means that we have a huge chance in achieving this target. There is hope that we are getting nearer to the place.
``Britain is one of the permanent members of the UN and for one to belong to that class, it would require total support and backing of such permanent members.
``It also shows that Britain has some measure of confidence in Nigeria and so it behoves on Nigeria too as a country to strive toward getting the support of more of such permanent members,” the don said.
Dr Samuel Ugoh, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Political Science, University of Lagos, said that the backing of Britain indicated that Nigeria’s membership was necessary for the development of the continent.
Ugoh said that Britain’s action was another means of encouraging other African countries to support Nigeria.
``What Britain has just done is quite commendable,’’ he said.
Prof. Lai Olurode, former Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Lagos, also lauded the gesture by the British Government, noting that the action was a boost for Nigeria’s image.
Olurode said that as an old friend of the country, Britain knew that Nigeria had the resources and the leadership potential.
According to him, the two countries have come a long way, considering their historical antecedents.
Olurode said that with Nigeria having a permanent seat at the UN, both countries would benefit from each other.
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