Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after attending the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States. He led Nigeria's delegation to the annual gathering on the instruction of President Bola Tinubu, departing Abuja on September 20. Shettima was welcomed back by officials and members of the Nigerian Army upon his arrival. His participation in the UNGA 81 was marked by several significant engagements.
During the General Debate, Shettima delivered President Tinubu's national statement, reiterating Nigeria's call for reform of the UN Security Council. The statement emphasized the need for permanent African representation in the council. Additionally, it called for fairer global financing, stronger climate support, and deeper multilateral cooperation. These statements reflect Nigeria's commitment to global governance and cooperation.
Shettima also participated in the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group. There, he conveyed a message from President Tinubu, urging African countries to move beyond exporting raw minerals towards processing, manufacturing, and value addition. This call aligns with efforts to enhance economic development and industrialization in Africa.
The Vice President attended a high-level education financing event co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy. At the event, Shettima emphasized Nigeria's view of education as an investment in productivity, human capital, and national prosperity. He expressed support for the Global Partnership for Education's $5 billion financing campaign, highlighting the importance of education in national development.
Shettima engaged with Nigerians in the diaspora, underscoring the significance of their investment, expertise, and networks to national development. He also met with the new leadership of the ECOWAS Commission and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed. These meetings covered a range of issues, including development financing, regional integration, and peace and security.
The discussions with ECOWAS Commission and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed also touched on economic cooperation, technology, and peace and security. Shettima reiterated President Tinubu's call for a more representative and equitable global order. These interactions reflect Nigeria's commitment to regional and global cooperation.
The successful participation of Vice President Shettima in UNGA 81 demonstrates Nigeria's active engagement in global affairs. His engagements in New York underscore the country's commitment to multilateralism, sustainable development, and global cooperation. The Vice President's return to Nigeria marks the conclusion of a productive visit.
Key points
- Vice President Kashim Shettima represented President Bola Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.
- Shettima called for reform of the UN Security Council and emphasized the need for permanent African representation.
- The Vice President supported the Global Partnership for Education's $5 billion financing campaign.
