The Secretary-General of the United Nations, António Guterres, has warned that the world is approaching a dangerous crossroads, calling on global leaders to reset priorities from militarisation to peace, development and climate action as military spending reaches record levels.
In his New Year video message, Guterres said the international community is grappling with deepening global instability marked by widening divisions, escalating violence, climate breakdown and persistent violations of international law.
“The world stands at a crossroads,” the UN chief said, noting that many people increasingly question whether political leaders are listening or prepared to act in the face of mounting global challenges.
Guterres disclosed that global military expenditure has surged to about $2.7 trillion, representing nearly a 10 per cent increase and a level he described as deeply alarming.
“This is 13 times higher than total global development aid and roughly equal to the entire GDP of Africa,” he said.
According to him, the rise in defence spending comes at a time when conflicts are raging at levels not seen since the Second World War, while millions of people continue to suffer from poverty, inequality, displacement and the devastating impacts of climate change.
The UN chief argued that the trend reflects misplaced global priorities, stressing that the resources being poured into weapons and war could instead transform lives if invested in education, healthcare, climate resilience and sustainable development.
“A safer world begins by investing more in fighting poverty and less in fighting wars,” Guterres said.
He maintained that the world has more than enough resources to improve living standards, protect the planet and build a future anchored on peace and justice—if political will is applied.
Looking ahead to 2026, Guterres challenged world leaders to make decisive choices that place people, dignity and the environment above conflict and suffering. He also called on citizens globally to play their part in demanding accountability and contributing to positive change.
“Our future depends on our collective courage to act,” he said, urging renewed global unity in the pursuit of justice, humanity and peace in the new year.
Michael Olugbode, Abuja
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