Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has defended President Bola Tinubu's absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Ibrahim noted that many countries' leaders were represented at the gathering, and Tinubu's presence would have been brief. He argued that the president did not need to leave pressing national issues for the UNGA when several world leaders were also absent.
Ibrahim pointed out that the presidents of South Africa, China, Russia, and other countries were not present at the gathering. Instead, Vice President Kasim Shettima represented Nigeria. Ibrahim emphasized that Shettima adequately represented the country, making Tinubu's physical presence unnecessary. This is not the first time Tinubu has missed the UNGA; he has been absent for three consecutive years.
Tinubu's absence from the 81st UNGA triggered criticism from many Nigerians on social media. It also raised questions about his repeated absence from the UNGA and other international gatherings. During the time of the UN assembly, Tinubu was away in France on a "working vacation." He met French President Emmanuel Macron and French businessman Vincent Bolloré a few days before the UNGA.
The presidency insisted that Tinubu has continued to perform his official duties despite being away. In defense of the president, Ibrahim said his working leave does not violate the Constitution. He distinguished between a working leave and an absolute leave, stating that the president hasn't committed any offense.
Ibrahim also argued that Nigeria retained its prominent seating position at the gathering despite Tinubu's absence. He ensured that Nigeria retained its position, sitting at number six in the front row. Ibrahim noted that it is not easy for a country to secure such a prominent position, emphasizing his role in maintaining Nigeria's status.
Ibrahim compared the president's situation to his own, stating that even he, as the chair of the budget in the UN, is looking for leave. He emphasized that human beings are not machines and need breaks. Ibrahim's comments aim to alleviate concerns about Tinubu's absence and working leave.
The 81st UNGA was held last week, and Ibrahim's statements come as a response to criticism about Tinubu's repeated absences from international gatherings. Ibrahim's defense of Tinubu highlights the complexities of balancing national duties with international commitments. Key points include:
Key points
- Vice President Kasim Shettima represented Nigeria at the 81st UNGA.
- President Bola Tinubu has been absent from the UNGA for three consecutive years.
- Jimoh Ibrahim defended Tinubu's absence, citing his working leave and representation by Shettima.
