President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria has confirmed that he will not physically attend the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. This marks the third consecutive year that Tinubu has missed the global event since taking office in 2023. The President has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation to the event.
According to a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, spokesman to the Vice President, Shettima will head a high-level delegation that includes Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, ministers, and other senior government officials. The 81st UNGA General Debate will take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme "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 and priorities on major global issues. These issues include national development, peace and security, economic growth, and international cooperation. The Vice President will also participate in high-level meetings on the Right to Development, climate action, and other strategic issues for Nigeria and the African continent.
Shettima is expected to join world leaders at the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and participate in bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries, international organizations, and development partners. These engagements will allow 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.
Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, has dismissed concerns over President Tinubu's absence. Ibrahim stated that it is a common diplomatic practice for presidents to be represented by vice presidents or foreign ministers when they are unable to attend. He assured that Nigeria will maintain its front-row seat and continue to play a full diplomatic role at the global gathering.
However, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded an explanation from President Tinubu over his repeated absence from the UNGA. Atiku questioned whether Tinubu's documented history with United States law-enforcement agencies has become a burden on Nigeria's foreign relations. He argued that presidential absence on the global stage has consequences, including lost opportunities for investment and international partnerships.
Experts have also expressed concerns over Tinubu's continuous absence at the UNGA, describing it as "fishy" and potentially damaging to Nigeria's diplomatic standing. Dr. Riyauddeen Zubairu Maitama, a lecturer in International Relations at Bayero University Kano, noted that the UNGA is a critical platform for leaders to defend their countries' interests, negotiate partnerships, and shape global decisions.
Key points
- President Tinubu's absence from the UNGA has raised concerns about Nigeria's diplomatic standing and potential economic consequences.
- Vice President Shettima will lead Nigeria's delegation to the UNGA, participating in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements.
- This marks the third consecutive year that Tinubu has missed the UNGA since taking office in 2023.
