Shettima To Lead Nigeria’s UNGA Delegation

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has ordered Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York.

Shettima will lead a high-level delegation that includes 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.”

At the General Debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, presenting the country’s position and priorities on major global issues, including national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.

The Vice President is also expected to participate in high-level meetings during the UNGA week, with discussions focusing on the Right to Development, climate action and other issues of strategic importance to Nigeria and Africa.

Shettima will join other world leaders at 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.

According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, the engagements will give Nigeria an opportunity to advance Tinubu’s economic diplomacy and strengthen strategic partnerships.

The meetings are also expected to focus on reforming the global financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, and multilateral cooperation.

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