Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to lead Nigeria's delegation at the 81st United Nations General Assembly. He will press the country's case for a more representative global system, emphasizing that international institutions must reflect present-day economic and demographic realities. Shettima's participation is expected to combine Nigeria's immediate diplomatic and economic interests with its longer-standing advocacy for changes to the global system.
Shettima stated that Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions that govern the world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to today's realities. He will engage partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria's national interest while advancing President Bola Tinubu's call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and a fairer opportunity to prosper. The Vice President's message aligns with broader African calls for reform of global institutions.
The 81st UN General Assembly opens its high-level week amid renewed international discussions on reforming global governance and strengthening multilateral cooperation. The UN has listed "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all" as the theme of the 81st session. Nigeria's agenda at the gathering includes reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, access to technology, and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement during the General Debate, outlining the country's position on major international issues affecting peace and security, economic growth, development, and global cooperation. He will also hold bilateral meetings with world leaders, international organizations, and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly. The Vice President arrived in New York alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and other senior officials.
The issues Nigeria plans to address align with African calls for reform of global institutions, including increased representation for the continent in the UN Security Council and changes to the international financial system. The UN has acknowledged growing support among member states for increased representation of developing countries and Africa in the Security Council. Shettima's participation is expected to advance Nigeria's national interests while advocating for changes to the global system.
The 81st General Debate begins on September 22 and will run through September 26, with a concluding session on September 28. Shettima was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and other officials, including Minister of Foreign Affairs Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim.
Nigeria's push for institutional reform comes against the backdrop of continuing African advocacy for a greater role in global governance. Shettima's participation in the UNGA 81 is expected to combine Nigeria's immediate diplomatic and economic interests with its longer-standing advocacy for changes to the global system that would give developing countries greater influence in decisions affecting the international political and economic order.
Key points
- Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima will push for a stronger voice in global decision-making for developing countries at the 81st United Nations General Assembly.
- The 81st UN General Assembly will discuss reforming global governance and strengthening multilateral cooperation.
- Nigeria's agenda includes reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
