Shettima Leads Nigeria’s Delegation to UN General Assembly as World Leaders Gather in New York

Nigeria is set to play a significant role at the upcoming 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), scheduled to take place in New York, United States, from September 22 to 28, 2026.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has officially mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead the country's high-level delegation to this crucial international gathering.

The delegation, headed by Vice President Shettima, will comprise a notable assembly of state officials, including Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, various ministers, and other senior government officials.

This year's UNGA session is themed "Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all," underscoring the global focus on renewed confidence and effective governance within the international community.

During the General Debate, Senator Shettima is slated to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, a pivotal address that will articulate the nation’s stance and priorities on pressing global issues.

These issues encompass national development, efforts towards peace and security, strategies for economic growth, and the imperative of international cooperation.

Beyond the general debate, the Vice President is scheduled to actively participate in several high-level meetings throughout the UNGA week. These engagements will cover critical discussions on the Right to Development, global climate action initiatives, and other matters deemed strategically important for Nigeria and the wider African continent.

Furthermore, Vice President Shettima is expected to attend the traditional reception hosted for Heads of Delegation and will engage in a series of bilateral meetings.

These one-on-one sessions with leaders from other countries, representatives of international organizations, and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly are designed to foster stronger international ties.

These engagements collectively aim to advance President Tinubu’s economic diplomacy agenda, deepen strategic partnerships, and amplify Nigeria’s voice on critical global discussions, including reforms of the global financial architecture, sustainable development goals, climate finance mechanisms, and enhanced multilateral cooperation.

The Vice President and the entire Nigerian delegation are anticipated to conclude their official engagements in New York and subsequently return to Nigeria.