Vice President Shettima Touches Down In New York For Landmark 80th UN General Assembly

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which officially opens on Monday and runs through September 28.

According to Ireporter Online, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the high-level General Debate, unveil the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Climate Agreement, and participate in a series of bilateral meetings, roundtable discussions, and side events.

Although President Tinubu had initially been listed among speakers at the General Assembly, a revised schedule confirmed that Shettima would now present Nigeria’s position. The Vice President is slated to address the Assembly on Wednesday during the afternoon session.

On arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Shettima was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Defence, Mohammed Badaru Abubakar; and Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires at the Permanent Mission to the UN, Samson Itegboje. Others present at the airport included the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji; Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in New York, Brig.-Gen. Edward Koleoso; and Defence Attaché in Washington, Group Capt. Sani Kalgo.

Speaking on Nigeria’s priorities for UNGA 80, Foreign Affairs Minister Tuggar stated that the country would push for the adoption of a United Nations Global Convention on Taxation and intensify efforts for Africa’s permanent representation on the UN Security Council.

“This is a position that puts Nigeria at the forefront of leadership,” Tuggar said. “We will continue to advocate for Africa’s demand, under the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, for at least two permanent seats on the Security Council.”

He added that Nigeria would also emphasize its contributions to global peacekeeping and address ongoing crises in Gaza, Eastern Congo, and Sudan.

Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, who is also in New York, noted that Nigeria’s participation at the General Assembly would strengthen its global image as Africa’s leading economy. “We are prioritizing key sectors such as solid minerals, agriculture, and skills-based education. The Vice President’s address on Wednesday will further consolidate Nigeria’s economic leadership on the continent,” he said.

Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr. Olajumoke Oduwole, disclosed that Nigeria would leverage the UNGA platform to attract international investors. “On Monday, we are hosting Nigeria Investment Day, showcasing opportunities in solid minerals, telecommunications, and technology. This event will highlight the economic reforms of the past two years and engage global partners on Nigeria’s growth trajectory,” she explained.

Throughout the week-long session, Shettima is also expected to take part in the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting and hold talks with the Prime Minister of Sudan, alongside other high-level diplomatic engagements.