By Atoyebi Nike
Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York ahead of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), where he will represent President Bola Tinubu and present Nigeria’s key priorities to world leaders.
The high-level session, which opens on Monday and runs until September 28, will see Shettima deliver Nigeria’s national statement, unveil the country’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, and participate in side events, bilateral meetings, and roundtables.
Tinubu was initially scheduled to address the Assembly on the second day of the General Debate, but a revised list of speakers confirmed that Shettima would now represent him. He is expected to make Nigeria’s presentation during the afternoon session, around 8:30 p.m. local time (2:30 a.m. Nigerian time).
On arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, the Vice President was received by Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires to the UN Samson Itegboje, Innovation Minister Uche Nnaji, and senior defence officials.
Foreign Minister Tuggar said Nigeria would use the global stage to press for a UN Convention on Taxation and stronger advocacy for Africa’s representation on the UN Security Council.
“This is something that has put Nigeria in a leadership position,” Tuggar noted. “We also promote Nigeria’s push to become a permanent member of the Security Council, as Africa’s common position under the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration calls for at least two permanent seats.”
Nigeria is also expected to reaffirm its role in peacekeeping missions and its stance on conflicts in Gaza, Eastern Congo, and Sudan.
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, also in New York, said Nigeria’s participation would reinforce its image as an African economic powerhouse.
“We are looking at areas of strength such as solid minerals, agriculture, and skills-based education,” he said. “The Vice President’s presentation on Wednesday will further reposition Nigeria as Africa’s leading economy.”
Industry, Trade, and Investment Minister Olajumoke Oduwole added that Nigeria would highlight investment opportunities under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“On Monday, we are hosting Nigeria Investment Day, showcasing solid minerals, telecommunications, and technology,” she said. “It is to demonstrate the reforms the economy has undergone in the past two years and to engage partners on where we are headed.”
Shettima will also attend the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting and hold talks with the Prime Minister of Sudan, among other high-level engagements.
