Vice president Kashim Shettima goes to New York to represent Nigeria at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which begins on Monday, September 22, and will end September 28. The high-level gathering of world leaders, diplomats, and policymakers will focus on pressing global issues, including climate change, international peace, and sustainable development.
Shettima is standing in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who was originally scheduled to address the Assembly. According to the UN’s provisional list of speakers, Tinubu had been slated to deliver Nigeria’s statement on the second day of the General Debate, around 8:30 p.m. local time (2:30 p.m. Nigerian time), as the 17th world leader to speak. With Shettima now representing the country, he will present Nigeria’s national statement, reaffirming the nation’s position on key global concerns.
In addition to delivering the national address, the Vice President is expected to unveil Nigeria’s revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, signaling the country’s renewed commitment to climate action. He will also participate in a wide range of engagements, including bilateral meetings with other world leaders, side events, and multilateral roundtables that aim to deepen Nigeria’s influence in shaping international policy.
On arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, Shettima was warmly received by top Nigerian officials. Those present included Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; and Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires at the Permanent Mission to the UN, Ambassador Samson Itegboje. Others at the airport were the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji; Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in New York, Brigadier-General Edward Koleoso; and Defence Attaché in Washington, Group Captain Sani Kalgo.
Outlining Nigeria’s priorities for UNGA 80, Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar stated that the country would continue advocating for the adoption of a United Nations Global Convention on Taxation and for Africa’s permanent representation on the UN Security Council. He noted that this push is in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration, which reflect Africa’s collective demand for at least two permanent seats on the Security Council.
Nigeria will also use the platform to restate its commitment to global peace and stability, particularly in relation to ongoing crises in Gaza, Eastern Congo, and Sudan. Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, who is part of the Nigerian delegation, highlighted that the country’s participation in UNGA 80 will further strengthen its image as Africa’s leading economy and investment hub. He pointed to solid minerals, agriculture, and skill-based education as key areas Nigeria intends to promote on the global stage.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, revealed that Nigeria will host a special event, tagged “Nigeria Investment Day,” to showcase the country’s economic reforms and highlight investment opportunities in sectors such as solid minerals, telecommunications, and technology. According to her, this initiative ties into the Renewed Hope Agenda, designed to reposition Nigeria as an attractive destination for global investors.
Beyond economic diplomacy, Shettima is scheduled to attend the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting, as well as hold high-level talks with leaders including the Prime Minister of Sudan. His participation reflects Nigeria’s ongoing role as a key regional power and a leading voice in multilateral diplomacy.
Through his presence at UNGA 80, Shettima is expected to reinforce Nigeria’s international standing, project its domestic reforms, and rally support for Africa’s collective interests, while promoting Tinubu’s Renewed Hope vision for the country.
