President Bola Tinubu has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States.
The Presidency disclosed this in a statement on Sunday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President.
Shettima will lead a high-level delegation comprising Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.
The UNGA General Debate is scheduled for September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
Shettima to Present Nigeria’s Position
At the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position and priorities on issues affecting national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
He will also participate in high-level meetings on the Right to Development, climate action and other issues of strategic importance to Nigeria and Africa.
The Vice President is expected to attend the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and hold bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
Focus on Economic Diplomacy
According to Nkwocha, the engagements will provide Nigeria with an opportunity to advance Tinubu’s economic diplomacy, deepen strategic partnerships and strengthen the country’s voice on reform of the global financial architecture.
Other areas of focus will include sustainable development, climate finance and multilateral cooperation.
Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in New York.
