Atiku demands Tinubu explain three straight UNGA absences, citing diplomatic and economic costs to Nigerians

Atiku Abubakar accused President Bola Tinubu of evading responsibility by missing the United Nations General Assembly for three consecutive years (2024, 2025, 2026), sending Vice President Kashim Shettima as his replacement each time. In a statement issued earlier today by his spokesperson Phrank Shaibu, the ADC presidential candidate demanded a full explanation for what he called a pattern of presidential evasion requiring honest accountability.

Atiku argued that Tinubu's absence from the UNGA's 79th, 80th, and 81st sessions deprives Nigeria of critical diplomatic opportunities where presidents negotiate trade partnerships, court investors, and mobilize development finance. He warned that lost investment translates to fewer businesses and jobs, placing additional pressure on the naira and raising costs for imports, production, transportation, and food - exacerbating the worst cost-of-living crisis in living memory for Nigerian families. While acknowledging Shettima's capability, Atiku stressed that permanent delegation cannot substitute for the president's personal authority and visibility at global forums where decisive bilateral meetings occur on the sidelines.

The opposition leader further wondered whether Tinubu's documented history with United States law-enforcement agencies has become a burden on Nigeria's foreign relations, suggesting this might explain the persistent absences. He concluded that while a president may surrender his seat at the UN table, the nation ultimately bears the economic bill through diminished capital inflows and weakened currency. Should Nigerians prioritize consistent presidential presence at global engagements when assessing leadership effectiveness, or does delegation through vice presidents sufficiently represent national interests?

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/09/20/unga-absence-nigeria-cant-pay-for-tinubus-us-baggage-atiku/