SHETTIMA ARRIVES NEW YORK, SAYS NIGERIA WILL PUSH NATIONAL PRIORITIES AT UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. Shettima said Nigeria would approach the high-level gathering from the standpoint of its national interest while maintaining its commitment to multilateralism. He is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate and participate in discussions and diplomatic engagements on issues affecting the country and the wider African continent.

The Vice President said Nigeria would also use the gathering to support reforms of global institutions so that they better reflect present-day economic and demographic realities. According to him, the country believes in multilateral cooperation but wants international institutions to become more representative, equitable and responsive. He said Nigeria would engage its international partners firmly while seeking stronger representation and fairer opportunities for developing countries within the global system.

The 81st UN General Assembly’s high-level General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.” During the session, Shettima is expected to outline Nigeria’s positions on major international matters involving peace and security, economic development, international cooperation and other issues with implications for national development.

Beyond the General Debate, Shettima is scheduled to hold high-level and bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners. The Presidency said the engagements would provide opportunities for Nigeria to advance its positions on reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access and stronger African representation in global decision-making. The Vice President is also expected to participate in other official activities during the UNGA week.

Shettima is leading a high-level Nigerian delegation that includes Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, has said the country will remain adequately represented despite Tinubu’s absence, noting that senior officials can represent countries at the General Assembly when presidents are unable to attend. Shettima previously represented Tinubu at the 79th and 80th UNGA sessions in 2024 and 2025.