Nigeria's Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has arrived in New York to lead the country's delegation at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly. He represents President Bola Tinubu and declared that Nigeria will pursue its national interests while engaging with world leaders. Shettima emphasized the need for a fairer global system, stressing that Nigeria remains committed to global cooperation but will push for reforms of outdated international institutions.
Shettima stated that Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions governing the world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to today's realities. He added that Nigeria will use the high-level gathering to amplify President Tinubu's demand for developing nations to have a stronger voice and better economic opportunities on the world stage. This aligns with the UN General Debate theme, "Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all."
The UN General Debate will run from September 22 to 28, and Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement, outlining the country's stance on global peace, economic growth, and sustainable development. He will also participate in high-level bilateral meetings to discuss climate finance, technology access, and the reform of the international financial architecture. These meetings aim to address pressing global issues and promote cooperation among nations.
Shettima arrived in the United States alongside senior government officials, including Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite. A high-profile reception team welcomed the Vice President in New York, comprising Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Solid Minerals Minister Dele Alake, and Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the UN, Jimoh Ibrahim.
The Vice President's delegation and the reception team reflect Nigeria's commitment to engaging with global leaders and promoting the country's interests. Shettima's participation in the UNGA aims to strengthen Nigeria's relationships with other nations and international organizations. By pushing for global reforms, Nigeria seeks to address the challenges facing the international community and promote a more equitable and just world order.
The 81st session of the UNGA brings together world leaders to address pressing global issues, including climate change, economic inequality, and conflict resolution. Nigeria's participation in the debate and bilateral meetings demonstrates its commitment to finding solutions to these challenges and promoting global cooperation. Shettima's leadership of the Nigerian delegation underscores the country's determination to play a more significant role in international affairs.
As the UNGA continues, Shettima's engagements will likely focus on promoting Nigeria's national interests and advocating for global reforms. The outcome of these efforts will be closely watched, both within Nigeria and internationally. The Vice President's participation in the UNGA reflects Nigeria's growing influence in global affairs and its commitment to shaping a more equitable and just world order.
Key points
- Nigeria will prioritize its national interests while engaging with world leaders at the UNGA.
- The country will push for reforms of outdated international institutions to promote a fairer global system.
- Shettima will participate in high-level bilateral meetings to discuss climate finance, technology access, and the reform of the international financial architecture.
