President Bola Tinubu has mandated Vice-President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States.

The Presidency announced the development on Sunday, ending speculation over whether Tinubu would personally attend the annual gathering of world leaders.

Shettima will lead a high-level delegation comprising Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.

The General Debate of the 81st UNGA is scheduled to hold from September 22 to 28 under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all.”

According to the Presidency, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s positions and priorities on issues including national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.

The Vice-President is also expected to participate in high-level meetings on the right to development, climate action and other issues of strategic importance to Nigeria and Africa.

Shettima will further attend the traditional reception for heads of delegation and hold bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

The Presidency said the engagements would provide opportunities to advance Nigeria’s economic diplomacy, strengthen strategic partnerships and promote the country’s interests in discussions on global financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance and multilateral cooperation.

Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in New York.