Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after a six-day trip to New York, where he represented President Bola Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly. Shettima departed Abuja on September 20 and led Nigeria’s delegation to the annual global gathering. During his visit, he delivered Nigeria’s national statement at the General Debate.
In his national statement, Nigeria renewed its call for reforms to the United Nations Security Council. The country advocated for permanent African representation on the Security Council, fairer global financing, stronger climate support, and deeper multilateral cooperation. These issues are critical to Nigeria and Africa's development and global influence.
Shettima also represented President Tinubu at the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group. There, Nigeria urged African countries to move beyond exporting raw minerals and focus on processing, manufacturing, and value addition. This approach aims to increase the continent's economic benefits from its natural resources.
The Vice President attended a high-level education financing event co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy. He reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to education and supported the Global Partnership for Education’s $5 billion financing campaign. Shettima described education as “a critical investment in productivity, human capital, and national prosperity,” highlighting its importance for Nigeria's development.
During his trip, Shettima met with members of the Nigerian diaspora. He emphasized the role of their investments, expertise, and networks in supporting national development. These engagements are crucial for fostering collaboration and encouraging diaspora contributions to Nigeria's growth.
The Vice President held additional meetings with the new leadership of the Economic Community of West African States Commission and United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed. These discussions focused on development financing, regional integration, economic cooperation, technology, peace, and security. Such engagements are vital for advancing Nigeria's and West Africa's interests.
Shettima’s return marks the end of his assignment representing President Tinubu at the UN General Assembly. The 81st UNGA brought together world leaders and senior officials to discuss global development, security, climate action, and multilateral cooperation. Nigeria’s participation was held under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
Key points
- Nigeria calls for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council
- VP Shettima advocates for education financing and diaspora engagement
- Nigeria pushes for value addition in the export of minerals
