President Bola Tinubu has announced that he will not be attending the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) scheduled to take place in New York this year. In his stead, Vice President Kashim Shettima has been directed to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the international gathering.
The decision follows President Tinubu’s recent return to Nigeria after diplomatic engagements in China and the United Kingdom. With pressing domestic matters demanding his attention, particularly the aftermath of the devastating floods that have wreaked havoc across several states, President Tinubu has chosen to prioritize addressing the nation’s internal challenges.
Vice President Shettima is expected to play a pivotal role at the General Assembly, where he will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, representing the country’s interests on the global stage. In addition to this, Shettima will participate in key sideline events and engage in crucial bilateral meetings with world leaders, positioning Nigeria as a central player in global discussions.
The high-level General Debate, which serves as a platform for world leaders to discuss critical global issues, is themed “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations.” It will take place from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024. This year’s theme underscores the importance of collective action in tackling global challenges and promoting sustainable development, a subject of keen interest to Nigeria, given its ongoing efforts in peace-building and economic advancement.
With Vice President Shettima at the helm of Nigeria’s delegation, the country aims to reinforce its commitment to these global goals, ensuring its voice is heard on issues such as climate change, economic growth, and international security.
