Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Ahmed 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 event, departing Abuja on 20 September. During his visit, VP Shettima engaged in various high-level meetings and events, advancing Nigeria's positions on key global issues. His delegation included several high-ranking officials and representatives of the Nigerian government.
At the General Debate, VP Shettima delivered President Tinubu's National Statement, renewing Nigeria's call for reform of the UN Security Council. He emphasized the need for permanent African representation, fairer global financing, stronger climate support, and deeper multilateral cooperation. This aligns with Nigeria's long-standing position on the need for a more representative and equitable global order. The Vice President's statement was well-received by the international community, highlighting Nigeria's commitment to global governance and cooperation.
VP Shettima also participated in the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group. President Tinubu urged African countries to move beyond raw mineral exports towards processing, manufacturing, and value addition. This call is part of a broader effort to promote economic diversification and sustainable development in Africa. The Vice President's participation in this event underscored Nigeria's commitment to driving economic growth and development on the continent.
The Vice President also attended a high-level education financing event co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy. He reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to education as a critical investment in productivity, human capital, and national prosperity. The event was part of the Global Partnership for Education's $5 billion financing campaign. Nigeria's support for this campaign highlights its dedication to improving access to quality education and promoting sustainable development.
During his visit, VP Shettima met with Nigerians in the Diaspora, stressing the importance of their investment, expertise, and networks to national development. He encouraged them to contribute to Nigeria's growth and development, leveraging their skills and experience to drive progress. This engagement reflects the Nigerian government's efforts to harness the potential of its diaspora community.
The Vice President also held meetings with the new leadership of the ECOWAS Commission and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed. These meetings provided opportunities for Nigeria to advance its positions on development financing, regional integration, economic cooperation, technology, peace, and security. The discussions focused on promoting cooperation and collaboration between Nigeria, ECOWAS, and the UN.
Across the meetings, VP Shettima advanced Nigeria's positions on key global issues, reaffirming President Tinubu's call for a more representative and equitable global order. The Vice President's engagements at UNGA 81 demonstrated Nigeria's commitment to global governance, cooperation, and sustainable development. His return to Nigeria marks the end of a successful visit that promoted Nigeria's interests and strengthened its relationships with international partners.
Key points
- VP Shettima delivered President Tinubu's National Statement at the General Debate, calling for UN Security Council reform.
- The Vice President participated in the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, promoting economic diversification and sustainable development in Africa.
- VP Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to education as a critical investment in productivity, human capital, and national prosperity.
