President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice-President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States. Shettima will lead a high-level delegation comprising Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, among other senior government officials. The UNGA General Debate will take place from September 22 to 28, 2026.
The theme of the 81st UNGA General Debate is "Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all." During the General Debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement, outlining the country's position on major global issues affecting national development, peace, and security. The Vice President's address will also touch on economic growth and international cooperation.
In addition to the General Debate, Shettima will participate in high-level meetings on the Right to Development, climate action, and other strategic issues for Nigeria and Africa. He will also attend a traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and engage in bilateral meetings with world leaders, international organisations, and development partners.
These engagements will enable Nigeria to advance President Tinubu's economic diplomacy, deepen strategic partnerships, and strengthen the country's voice on global financial architecture reform, sustainable development, and climate finance. The meetings will also foster multilateral cooperation, a key aspect of Nigeria's foreign policy.
According to a press statement issued by Shettima's spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President departed Abuja on Sunday for New York. He is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in New York. President Tinubu, currently in France on vacation, mandated Shettima to represent him at the UNGA.
The delegation to the UNGA includes ministers and senior government officials. Governor Fubara of Rivers State and Governor Lawal of Zamfara State are part of the high-level delegation. Their presence underscores the importance Nigeria attaches to the UNGA and its role in shaping global policies.
The UNGA provides a platform for countries to engage in dialogue on pressing global issues. Nigeria's participation, led by Vice-President Shettima, aims to promote the country's interests and contribute to finding solutions to common challenges. The outcome of the UNGA will have implications for Nigeria and the global community.
Key points
- VP Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation to 81st UNGA Session
- Shettima to deliver Nigeria's national statement at UNGA General Debate
- Engagements to focus on economic diplomacy, strategic partnerships, and global issues
