VP Shettima leads Nigeria's UNGA delegation in New York, pushing for global reform
Vice President Kashim Shettima arrived in New York today to lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly while President Tinubu remains absent. Shettima emphasized Nigeria's commitment to multilateralism but insisted global institutions must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to current economic realities, giving developing countries stronger voice and fairer prosperity opportunities.
He arrived with Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Ministers Doris Uzoka-Anite (Budget), Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu (Foreign Affairs), Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim (Women Affairs), Dele Alake (Solid Minerals), and others. Upon arrival, he was received by Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, Presidential Deputy Chief of Staff Ibrahim Hadejia, UN Representative Jimoh Ibrahim, and senior diplomats.
During the General Debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement on peace, security, development and global cooperation. Nigeria aims to use sidelines meetings to advance positions on reforming international financial architecture, securing climate finance, improving technology access, and strengthening Africa's representation in global decision-making—issues directly affecting Nigeria's economic policies, environmental resilience, and digital development prospects.
With global financial reforms potentially influencing loan terms and aid flows, climate finance discussions impacting adaptation projects for vulnerable communities, and tech access talks shaping digital infrastructure partnerships, how might these UNGA outcomes translate into tangible changes you'll experience in Nigeria's economy, environment, or technological advancement over the next year?