President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is expected to address world leaders at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York on September 23, 2026, where he will present Nigeria’s reform agenda and seek stronger international cooperation on regional security.
Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, said the President’s participation would provide an opportunity to showcase the administration’s economic reforms and engage global stakeholders on issues affecting Nigeria and the wider West African region.
A major focus of Nigeria’s engagement is expected to be border security across West Africa. Ibrahim said the Federal Government is working with the United Nations on a regional border-policing initiative aimed at addressing security challenges linked to porous borders.
The initiative is expected to encourage greater cooperation among countries in the region while strengthening efforts to prevent cross-border criminal activities and other security threats.
Tinubu’s return to the UN General Assembly also provides an international platform for his administration to explain its economic reform programme and highlight what the government considers progress since taking office.
The President is also expected to participate in high-level engagements and side events covering areas including energy, education and healthcare.
Nigeria’s participation comes at a time when the country is seeking greater international cooperation on economic development and security. The government is expected to use the UN platform to attract support and partnerships for its reform programmes.
The UNGA appearance will mark Tinubu’s return to the annual global gathering after being represented at the previous two sessions by Vice President Kashim Shettima.
The September meeting is therefore expected to provide an important opportunity for Nigeria to strengthen diplomatic engagement, promote its economic priorities and seek broader international backing for efforts to improve security across the region.
