Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York ahead of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), scheduled to begin Monday, September 22, and run through September 28.
Shettima, who is standing in for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the high-level gathering, touched down at John F. Kennedy International Airport, where he was warmly received by senior Nigerian officials, including Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar, Defence Minister Badaru Abubakar, and Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires to the UN, Ambassador Samson Itegboje. Also present were Innovation, Science and Technology Minister Uche Nnaji, Defence Attaché Brigadier-General Edward Koleoso, and Washington-based Defence Attaché Group Captain Sani Kalgo.
During the weeklong summit, the Vice President will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, take part in the general debate, and engage in bilateral meetings with world leaders. A key highlight will be Nigeria’s formal presentation of its revised Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, reaffirming the country’s commitment to climate action.
Shettima is also expected to participate in a high-level roundtable on affordable housing and push for reforms in the global financial system. Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar stressed that Nigeria is taking a leadership role in advancing a proposed United Nations Global Convention on Taxation and will continue to advocate for Africa’s demand for at least two permanent seats on the UN Security Council, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.
In addition, the Vice President will hold talks on peacekeeping, meet with the Prime Minister of Sudan, and participate in the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who is part of the delegation, noted that Nigeria’s active participation at the UNGA will strengthen its image as a prime investment destination. He highlighted opportunities in solid minerals, agriculture, and skills-based education, stressing that Shettima’s address will showcase Nigeria’s economic leadership in Africa.
