Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. He was accompanied by Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other senior government officials. The vice president's arrival marks the beginning of Nigeria's engagement at the global gathering.
Upon arrival, Mr Shettima was received by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, the Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hadejia, and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, among other senior government and diplomatic officials. The high-level reception underscores the significance of Nigeria's participation at the UNGA. Mr Shettima's engagements will focus on advancing Nigeria's national interest and promoting multilateralism.
During his address at the General Debate, Mr Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on major international issues and priorities with direct implications for peace and security, development, economic growth, and global cooperation. The vice president's statement is expected to reflect Nigeria's stance on key global challenges and opportunities. His speech will also highlight Nigeria's commitment to multilateralism and cooperation.
Mr Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s engagements at the UNGA will be guided by the country’s national interest, commitment to multilateralism, and President Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms of global institutions. He stated that Nigeria believes in multilateralism but stressed that global institutions must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to contemporary realities. The vice president's remarks reflect Nigeria's aspirations for a more inclusive and effective global governance system.
On the sidelines of the General Assembly, Mr Shettima will participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations, and development partners. These interactions will focus on reinforcing Nigeria's positions on reform of international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access, and stronger representation for Africa in global decision-making. The meetings aim to promote Nigeria's interests and foster cooperation with global partners.
The Nigerian delegation's participation at the UNGA is expected to promote the country's interests and contribute to global discussions on pressing issues. Mr Shettima's engagements will also provide opportunities for Nigeria to collaborate with international partners on areas of mutual interest. The vice president's visit is seen as a crucial step in advancing Nigeria's foreign policy objectives and strengthening its relationships with global stakeholders.
According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to The President on Media & Communications, the vice president's participation at the UNGA reflects the administration's commitment to promoting Nigeria's interests and engaging with the global community. The event provides a platform for Nigeria to share its perspectives on global issues and contribute to the development of international policies and frameworks. Mr Shettima's address at the UNGA is anticipated to generate significant interest and attention from the international community.
Key points
- Nigeria's Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to lead the country's delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
- Mr Shettima emphasized that Nigeria’s engagements at the UNGA will be guided by the country’s national interest, commitment to multilateralism, and President Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms of global institutions.
- The Nigerian delegation's participation at the UNGA aims to promote the country's interests and contribute to global discussions on pressing issues, including reform of international financial architecture and sustainable development.
