President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States. The UNGA General Debate will hold from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, 'Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.' Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement, outlining the country's position and priorities on major global issues.
The development has sparked reactions from Nigerians, with some questioning Tinubu's absence from the global event. The President's decision to stay away from the UNGA has raised concerns, particularly in light of fresh concerns recently raised over his alleged drug case. Some Nigerians have taken to social media to express their opinions, with some speculating that Tinubu's absence may be linked to his alleged past record with United States law-enforcement agencies.
Leading the criticism of Tinubu's absence is the Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar. Atiku demanded a full explanation from Tinubu over his repeated absence from the UNGA, asking whether the President's documented history with US law-enforcement agencies has become a burden on Nigeria's foreign relations. Atiku stated that presidential absence on the global stage has consequences and that the UNGA is not merely a ceremonial gathering.
Atiku also noted that the sidelines of the UNGA are where leaders hold decisive bilateral meetings, court investors, negotiate trade partnerships, mobilise development finance, and make the case for their countries. He expressed concern that Nigeria may be missing out on opportunities due to Tinubu's absence. The Vice President will lead a high-level delegation comprising Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, ministers, and other senior government officials.
Social media users have also reacted to the development, with some expressing disappointment and others defending the President's decision. Some users have questioned whether Tinubu's absence is a sign of weakness or fear of being arrested. Others have argued that the President's decision to delegate Shettima is a normal practice and not a cause for concern. The reactions have sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Nigerians weighing in on the issue.
The 81st UNGA session is a significant event, with world leaders gathering to discuss global issues. Nigeria's participation in the event is crucial, and the country's delegation will play a key role in shaping the country's position on major global issues. The President's absence has raised questions about the country's leadership and its commitment to global engagement.
The development has also raised questions about the implications of Tinubu's absence on Nigeria's foreign relations. The President's repeated absence from the UNGA has sparked concerns about the country's ability to engage with the international community effectively. The government's spokesperson has yet to provide a detailed explanation for the President's absence, fueling speculation and debate.
Key points
- President Bola Ahmed Tinubu delegates Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the 81st UNGA session in New York.
- The development has sparked reactions from Nigerians, with some questioning Tinubu's absence from the global event.
- Atiku Abubakar, Presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), demands a full explanation from Tinubu over his repeated absence from the UNGA.
