Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called for an explanation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu regarding his consecutive absences from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). According to reports, Tinubu missed the 79th session in 2024, the 80th in 2025, and the 81st in 2026, with Vice President Kashim Shettima representing him each time. Atiku's Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, released a statement on Sunday seeking clarity on the President's repeated absence.
The UNGA is a significant diplomatic event that brings together representatives of the UN's 193 member states. It provides a platform for leaders to defend their countries' interests, negotiate partnerships, and shape global decisions on trade, security, and development. Atiku emphasized that while the Vice President can represent Nigeria, the President's personal presence carries authority and visibility that a delegation cannot fully replace.
Atiku highlighted the importance of the UNGA sidelines, which offer opportunities for bilateral meetings, investment drives, trade partnerships, and development finance negotiations. He suggested that the President's absence could have implications for investment and economic opportunities. Atiku referenced a reported statement by Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations about securing a seat for the President at the General Assembly and questioned why it was not utilized.
Atiku also questioned the rationale behind committing up to $9 million to American lobbyists to improve Nigeria's standing in the United States while the President did not attend the UNGA in New York. He asked what Nigerians got in return for that expenditure and why the government spent millions of dollars lobbying Washington while staying away from New York.
The former Vice President asked the Presidency to disclose whether there is any impediment to the President's travel to the United States and to reveal the real reason for the third consecutive absence. Atiku emphasized that Nigeria's diplomatic influence, economic interests, and international reputation must be protected.
Atiku's inquiry comes as concerns about Nigeria's representation on the global stage grow. The President's repeated absence from the UNGA has sparked debate about the country's priorities and commitment to international diplomacy.
Atiku's call for an explanation from the Presidency is a significant development in the country's diplomatic landscape. The response from the Presidency is expected to provide clarity on the President's absence and address concerns about Nigeria's international engagement.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar demands explanation from President Tinubu over repeated absence from UNGA
- President Tinubu missed three consecutive UNGA sessions, with Vice President Kashim Shettima representing him
- Atiku questions the value of $9 million spent on American lobbyists while President Tinubu did not attend UNGA in New York
