Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the ongoing 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. According to Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, Shettima will participate fully in the diplomatic engagements surrounding the session. The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and other top government officials will also join the Vice President at the high-level session.
More than 60 per cent of those listed to speak at the UNGA are being represented by either their vice presidents or foreign ministers. Ibrahim said it is not unusual for countries to delegate representation to senior government officials when their presidents are unable to attend. He assured that Nigeria would retain its designated position at the UNGA, including its front-row seat.
President Tinubu is currently in France on annual leave and will not personally attend the session. Ibrahim urged Nigerians to view the country's participation within the broader context of diplomatic representation. He stressed that Nigeria would continue to play its role fully at the General Assembly.
As Chairman of the UN Committee on Budget and Administration, Ibrahim plays a significant role in the UN's administrative affairs. He also recently emerged as the chairman of the UN Peacekeeping Committee. Ibrahim's statement was issued by the Nigerian Mission to the United Nations in New York.
The UNGA session brings together world leaders to discuss pressing global issues. Nigeria's participation is crucial, given its role as a key player in African and global affairs. The country's delegation will engage in various diplomatic activities, including bilateral meetings and multilateral discussions.
Ibrahim emphasized that the absence of President Tinubu should not be interpreted as Nigeria being inadequately represented. He said the country's delegation will continue to participate fully in the proceedings. The Minister of Foreign Affairs and other officials will support the Vice President in Nigeria's engagements at the UNGA.
The Nigerian Mission to the United Nations in New York is coordinating the country's participation in the UNGA. Ibrahim's statement reflects the country's commitment to active engagement in global affairs. The UNGA session will feature various high-level discussions, including debates on sustainable development, climate change, and international security.
Key points
- Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the UNGA.
- More than 60 per cent of UNGA attendees are being represented by senior government officials.
- Nigeria will retain its front-row seat at the UNGA despite President Tinubu's absence.
