Shettima Arrives New York to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation at 81st UNGA

Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and lead the country’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Shettima arrived on Monday, September 21, alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other senior government officials.

On arrival, he was received by senior Nigerian officials and diplomats, including Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake, and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim.

The Vice President is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate, outlining the country’s positions on major international issues affecting peace and security, economic development, sustainable development and global cooperation.

He is also scheduled to participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners during the UNGA week.

According to the Office of the Vice President, Nigeria intends to use the engagements to advance its positions on reform of the international financial architecture, climate finance, technology access, sustainable development and stronger African representation in global decision-making.

Speaking after his arrival, Shettima said Nigeria’s participation would be guided by the country’s national interest and commitment to multilateralism. He also reiterated President Tinubu’s call for reforms that would make global institutions more representative and responsive to present-day economic and demographic realities.

The 81st UNGA General Debate is scheduled for September 22–28 under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all.”

Shettima’s attendance follows President Tinubu’s decision to delegate him to lead Nigeria’s delegation to this year’s General Assembly. The Federal Government has said Nigeria will remain fully represented despite the President’s absence.