Shettima Returns After Leading Delegation to UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Tinubu and leading Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States.

Shettima departed Abuja on September 20 following Tinubu’s directive that he represent the President and lead the Nigerian delegation to the annual high-level gathering.

During the week-long engagements, the Vice President delivered Nigeria’s national statement at the General Debate, where the country renewed its call for reform of the United Nations Security Council and permanent representation for Africa.

Nigeria also advocated fairer global financing, stronger climate support and deeper multilateral cooperation.

Shettima participated in the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, where Nigeria pushed for greater value addition to Africa’s mineral resources.

The discussions focused on moving beyond the export of raw minerals towards processing, manufacturing and the development of industries around the continent’s natural resources.

At a high-level education financing event co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy, Shettima reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to education as an investment in productivity, human capital development and national prosperity.

He also expressed Nigeria’s support for the Global Partnership for Education’s $5 billion financing campaign.

The Vice President held engagements with Nigerians in the Diaspora, highlighting the role of their investments, expertise and international networks in supporting Nigeria’s development.

His other meetings included discussions with the new leadership of the Economic Community of West African States Commission and United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed.

According to the Presidency, the engagements also covered development financing, regional integration, economic cooperation, technology, peace and security.

Shettima’s participation at the UNGA provided an opportunity for Nigeria to present its positions on international cooperation, sustainable development, climate action and reforms to global institutions.

The Vice President departed New York for Abuja on Sunday after completing his scheduled engagements at the global gathering.

His return comes as the 81st UN General Assembly draws to a close, with Nigeria having used the high-level meetings to advance its diplomatic and economic priorities.