Shettima Arrives New York To Lead Nigeria’s Delegation To 81st UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Shettima arrived on Monday in company with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Dr Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other senior government officials.

He was received in New York by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Deputy Chief of Staff to the President (Office of the Vice President), Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, and other members of the Federal Executive Council and Nigeria’s diplomatic team.

Also present were the Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Chief Dele Alake; and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim.

Speaking ahead of the engagements, Shettima said Nigeria’s participation at the global gathering would be driven by the country’s national interest, commitment to multilateralism and President Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms of global institutions.

“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,” he said.

The Vice President added that Nigeria would engage its international partners from the standpoint of national interest while advancing the call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and greater opportunities for economic development.

During the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s positions on major international issues affecting peace and security, development, economic growth and global cooperation.

He will also participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral discussions with world leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

Nigeria is expected to use the engagements to advance its positions on reforms to the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access and stronger African representation in global decision-making.

The statement was issued on September 21, 2026, by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President.