Nigeria Heads to UNGA 81 With Shettima Leading High-Level Delegation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s official delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, with the Vice President representing the country at the annual gathering of world leaders.

The Presidency announced the decision in a statement ahead of the high-level meetings, confirming that the 81st UNGA General Debate will hold from 22 to 28 September under the theme: “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.” Governors Siminalayi Fubara and Dauda Lawal, alongside ministers and other senior government officials, will join the Nigerian delegation in New York.

At the General Debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement on behalf of President Tinubu, outlining the country’s position on major global issues affecting national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation. The address is expected to highlight Nigeria’s priorities while contributing to discussions on some of the world’s most pressing geopolitical and economic challenges.

Beyond the General Debate, the Vice President is scheduled to participate in a series of high-level meetings during UNGA week, including engagements focused on the Right to Development, climate action, sustainable development and other strategic issues of importance to Nigeria and the African continent. The Presidency said these meetings would reinforce Nigeria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and inclusive global development.

Shettima will also attend the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and hold bilateral meetings with heads of state, international organizations and development partners on the sidelines of the Assembly. Those discussions are expected to focus on expanding economic partnerships, attracting investment, strengthening regional security cooperation and advancing Nigeria’s diplomatic interests. Reuters

This year’s General Assembly convenes at a time of heightened geopolitical tensions, ongoing conflicts, climate emergencies and renewed calls for reforms of international institutions. Leaders from nearly 200 countries are expected to use the forum to address global peace, economic resilience, humanitarian challenges and sustainable development.

For Nigeria, participation in the 81st UNGA extends beyond diplomacy. The meetings provide an important platform to deepen engagement with investors, multilateral financial institutions and international partners while promoting the country’s economic and development agenda on the global stage. Reuters

As the world gathers in New York, Shettima’s leadership of Nigeria’s delegation underscores the country’s intention to remain an active voice in shaping international dialogue, strengthening strategic partnerships and advancing Africa’s interests within the United Nations system.