V.P Shettima’s Samoas’ trip cancelled after plane damage at JFK airport

October 25, 2024

By Samuel Ogunsona

The Nigerian Vice President, Kashim Shettima, trip to Samoa for the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Summit was abruptly cancelled after his plane suffered damage during a stopover at JFK Airport in New York.

A foreign object hit the plane, shattering the cockpit windscreen, rendering it unfit for travel.

President Bola Tinubu swiftly responded to the situation by approving a ministerial delegation to represent Nigeria at the summit in Apia, Samoa’s capital.

The Minister of Environment, Balarabe Abass Lawal, will lead the delegation to the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), which kicked off on October 21 and will conclude on October 26.

Initially, Vice President Shettima was slated to represent President Tinubu at the summit, joining King Charles of England and other world leaders from 56 member countries.

The theme of the meeting, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,” focuses on resilience, unlocking potential, and fostering a connected, digital Commonwealth.

The delegation will discuss key issues, including the global economy, environmental and security challenges, and electing the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.

Nigeria, as the largest African member, plays a significant role in this regard.

Vice President Shettima and Foreign Minister Yusuf Tuggar have since departed New York for Nigeria, while the plane undergoes repairs.