The Federal Government of Nigeria has cautioned opposition politicians against demarketing the country before the international community. This warning was given by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris. He stated that the government's reputation and international relationships should be respected and not subjected to speculation or false claims. The minister's statement comes amid recent comments by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a US-based lobbying organisation.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The Vice President will deliver Nigeria's national statement and participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations, and development partners. This move is aimed at advancing Nigeria's priorities on peace and security, economic development, and climate action.
The Federal Government has noted recent political commentary by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a US-based lobbying organisation retained by him. They questioned President Tinubu's non-attendance and sought to impute false and baseless motives to it. The government urges political actors to exercise responsibility when discussing matters affecting Nigeria's international relationships and national reputation.
The government emphasised that Nigeria values its longstanding relationship with the United States. This relationship encompasses trade and investment, security cooperation, energy, democratic institutions, regional stability, and extensive people-to-people ties. The government warned that speculation should not be presented to Nigerians or the international community as established fact.
Vice President Shettima carries the full mandate of the President and the Federal Republic of Nigeria. His engagements in New York will focus on advancing Nigeria's priorities. President Tinubu is currently on annual leave, and his decision to ask the Vice President to lead Nigeria's delegation is neither unusual nor a diminution of the country's diplomatic standing.
The government noted that political opposition and robust public debate are legitimate features of democracy. However, politicians must be mindful of the country's reputation and international relationships. The warning comes amid concerns that attacks on opposition could undermine the 2027 polls.
The Federal Government's warning to opposition politicians is a call to ensure that political debates and discussions do not harm the country's reputation. The government is urging all political actors to be responsible and respectful in their comments and actions. This move aims to promote a positive image of Nigeria globally.
Key points
- The Federal Government cautions opposition politicians against demarketing Nigeria before the international community.
- Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
- The government urges political actors to exercise responsibility when discussing matters affecting Nigeria's international relationships and national reputation.
