Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States. He led Nigeria's delegation to the annual global gathering, departing Abuja on September 20. During his time at the UNGA, Shettima delivered Tinubu's national statement at the General Debate, where Nigeria renewed its call for reforms to the United Nations Security Council.
According to a statement issued by Shettima's Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, President Tinubu reinforced his call for a more representative and equitable global order. Nigeria advocated for permanent African representation on the council, fairer global financing, stronger climate support, and deeper multilateral cooperation. This aligns with Tinubu's vision for a more inclusive and just international system.
At the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, Tinubu urged African countries to move beyond exporting raw minerals and focus on processing, manufacturing, and value addition. This call to action aims to help African nations maximize the economic benefits of their natural resources and promote sustainable development. The event provided a platform for leaders to discuss strategies for harnessing Africa's mineral wealth.
Shettima also participated in a high-level education financing event co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy, where he reaffirmed the Federal Government's commitment to education. He supported the Global Partnership for Education's $5bn financing campaign, describing education as "a critical investment in productivity, human capital, and national prosperity." This commitment underscores the importance of education in Nigeria's development agenda.
During his visit to the United States, Shettima met with Nigerians in the Diaspora, highlighting the importance of their investments, expertise, and networks to national development. He also held meetings with the new leadership of the Economic Community of West African States Commission and the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed. These engagements focused on development financing, regional integration, economic cooperation, technology, peace, and security.
The meetings with the Economic Community of West African States Commission and the UN Deputy Secretary-General aimed to strengthen partnerships and cooperation on key issues affecting the region. Discussions centered on strategies for promoting economic growth, stability, and peace in West Africa. These high-level interactions reflect Nigeria's commitment to regional leadership and cooperation.
Shettima's participation in the UNGA and other events demonstrates Nigeria's active engagement in global affairs. His advocacy for UN reforms, African representation, and sustainable development highlights the country's commitment to shaping a more equitable and prosperous world. The Vice President's return to Nigeria marks the end of a productive visit that reinforced the country's ties with international partners and promoted its development priorities.
Key points
- Nigeria renews call for reforms to the United Nations Security Council
- VP Shettima advocates for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council
- Nigeria commits to education financing, supporting the Global Partnership for Education's $5bn campaign
