The Vice President will deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level diplomatic meetings in New York.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.
The development was announced in a statement issued on Sunday, September 20, 2026, by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President.
Delegation to Include Two Governors
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 UNGA General Debate is scheduled for September 22 to 28 under the theme: “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
Shettima to Deliver Nigeria’s Statement
The Vice President will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on issues concerning national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
He is also expected to participate in high-level meetings focused on the Right to Development, climate action and other issues affecting Nigeria and Africa.
The programme includes bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners.
According to the statement, the engagements will support Nigeria’s economic diplomacy and efforts to strengthen strategic partnerships.
The government also plans to advance discussions on global financial architecture reform, sustainable development, climate finance and multilateral cooperation.
Third Consecutive UNGA Representation
This will be the third consecutive UNGA session at which Shettima represents President Tinubu.
The Vice President led Nigeria’s delegation and delivered the country’s national statement at the 79th and 80th sessions in 2024 and 2025.
Tinubu personally attended the 78th UNGA in 2023.
