Shettima Arrives New York, Says Nigeria’s UNGA Engagements Will Be Guided by National Interest
By Nafiu Muhammad Lema
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).
In a statement issued by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Office of the Vice President, Shettima said Nigeria’s engagements at the global gathering would be guided by the country’s national interest, commitment to multilateralism and the Tinubu administration’s advocacy for reforms of global institutions to reflect current economic and demographic realities.
“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,” Shettima said.
He added that Nigeria would engage its international partners from the standpoint of national interest while advancing President Tinubu’s call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and greater opportunities to prosper.
The Vice President arrived in New York alongside 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 on arrival 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; Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Chief Dele Alake; Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, among other government and diplomatic officials.
During the General Debate of the UN General Assembly, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on major international issues affecting peace and security, development, economic growth and global cooperation.
He is also scheduled to participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral discussions with world leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
According to the statement, Nigeria will use the engagements to reinforce its positions on reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
