Vice-President Kashim Shettima is set to deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly on Thursday afternoon, marking the third consecutive year he has represented President Bola Tinubu at the global summit.
An updated provisional speakers schedule places Nigeria fourth in the afternoon session of the General Debate on September 24.
The high-level afternoon session runs from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. New York time, with Shettima expected to take the podium between 4:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., corresponding to 9:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. in Nigeria.
President Tinubu, who personally addressed the 78th session in 2023, directed the Vice-President on Sunday to lead the nation’s delegation for the third straight year, following previous representations at the 79th and 80th sessions.
According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Shettima will outline Nigeria’s official positions on major international issues under the assembly’s overarching theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: a United Nations that delivers for all.”
His appearance places him among a high-powered gathering of global leaders that includes 73 Heads of State, 45 Heads of Government, and numerous ministers and vice-presidents.
Beyond delivering the national statement, the Vice-President’s itinerary features robust diplomatic engagement on the sidelines of the UN headquarters.
Shettima will participate in high-level strategic meetings crucial to Nigeria and the broader African continent, alongside holding vital bilateral talks with foreign leaders, international organizations, and development partners.
Shettima leads a high-level Nigerian delegation comprising Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, cabinet ministers, and other senior government officials.
The General Debate, which commences on Tuesday, September 22, provides a premier international platform for member states to articulate national priorities before concluding on September 28.
