Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, with the country set to push for reforms that would give developing nations a stronger voice in global decision-making.
Shettima said Nigeria’s engagement at the high-level gathering would be guided by its national interest, commitment to multilateralism and the need for global institutions to better reflect current economic and demographic realities.
“Our message in New York is clear. Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions that govern our world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to the realities of today,” Shettima was quoted as saying in a statement signed by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha.
“We will engage our partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria’s national interest while advancing President Tinubu’s call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and a fairer opportunity to prosper.”
Shettima arrived in New York alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka-Anite and other senior government officials.
He was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Office of the Vice President, Senator Ibrahim Hadejia; Minister of Foreign Affairs Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of Solid Mineral Development Dele Alake; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim; and other senior government and diplomatic officials.
During the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on major international issues and priorities relating to peace and security, development, economic growth and global cooperation.
Nigeria’s participation is also expected to focus on reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
Shettima is further scheduled to participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
The UN General Assembly’s high-level week runs from September 21 to 26, with the General Debate scheduled for September 22 to 26 and September 28 in New York.
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