Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the annual global gathering, where he said the country’s participation would be centred on protecting its national interests while strengthening its commitment to international cooperation.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, the Vice President said Nigeria would use the UNGA platform to push for a more inclusive and balanced international system.
Shettima said Nigeria supports multilateral cooperation but believes global institutions must adapt to present-day economic and population realities and provide developing countries with greater influence in international decision-making.
“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,” he said.
He added that Nigeria would engage other countries from the standpoint of its national priorities while continuing to support President Tinubu’s call for reforms that would give developing nations greater opportunities to participate meaningfully in global affairs.
The Vice President travelled to New York alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka-Anite and other senior government officials.
Upon his arrival, Shettima was received by Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and several senior officials, including Deputy Chief of Staff to the President in the Office of the Vice President, Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia; Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu; Minister of Women Affairs Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim; Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake; and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim.
As part of the General Assembly programme, Shettima is scheduled to present Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate.
His address is expected to outline the country’s position on key global issues affecting peace and security, economic development, growth and international cooperation.
The Vice President is also expected to attend high-level meetings and hold bilateral discussions with foreign leaders, international institutions and development partners on the sidelines of the UNGA.
Among the issues Nigeria is expected to raise are reforms to the global financial system, sustainable development, climate financing, access to technology and increased African participation in international decision-making.
