Tinubu mandates Shettima to lead high-level delegation to UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States, following a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The development was disclosed in a statement by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communication, Office of the Vice President.

According to the statement, Shettima will lead a high-level delegation comprising Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.

The 81st UNGA General Debate is scheduled to hold from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”

Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the General Debate, outlining the country’s position and priorities on key global issues, including national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.

The Vice President will also participate in high-level meetings during the UNGA week, with engagements expected to cover the Right to Development, climate action and other issues of strategic importance to Nigeria and the African continent.

He is further expected to attend the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation and hold bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

The statement said the engagements would provide Nigeria with an opportunity to advance President Tinubu’s economic diplomacy, deepen strategic partnerships and strengthen the country’s voice on reforms to the global financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance and multilateral cooperation.

Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in New York.