By Emmanuel Thomas l Sunday
ABUJA — PRESIDENT Bola Ahmed Tinubu has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s high-level delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States.
According to an official statement issued on Sunday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), Senator Shettima will head a delegation that includes Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, cabinet ministers, and other senior government officials.
The 81st UNGA General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, centered around the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
While in New York, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate. The address will outline the nation’s strategic position and policy priorities regarding major global issues impacting national development, peace and security, economic growth, and international cooperation.
In addition to delivering the national address, the Vice President is billed to participate in key high-level plenary sessions throughout UNGA week, with a focus on discussions surrounding the Right to Development, climate action, and other issues critical to Nigeria and the broader African continent.
Senator Shettima will also join other world leaders at the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and engage in a series of bilateral meetings with foreign counterparts, heads of international organizations, and key development partners on the sidelines of the assembly.
The Presidency noted that these diplomatic engagements are designed to advance President Tinubu’s foreign policy agenda of economic diplomacy, deepen international strategic partnerships, and amplify Nigeria’s voice in calling for the reform of the global financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, and strengthened multilateral cooperation.
The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria upon the conclusion of his official engagements in New York.