BREAKING: Vice President Shettima Arrives in New York for UNGA 80

By Ademola Adekusibe

Sept. 20, 2025

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).

Shettima is scheduled to deliver Nigeria’s national statement before world leaders, where he is expected to outline the Tinubu administration’s priorities on governance, economic reforms, climate action, and regional security. He will also unveil Nigeria’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, a key climate commitment that sets out the country’s targets for reducing carbon emissions.

In addition to his address, the Vice President will participate in a series of high-level debates, bilateral meetings with global leaders, and investment forums aimed at attracting foreign direct investment into Nigeria. Sectors expected to feature prominently in his engagements include solid minerals, agriculture, technology, infrastructure, and energy.

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, said Nigeria remains committed to strengthening multilateralism and pushing for reforms at the United Nations. He reiterated Africa’s longstanding call for permanent representation on the UN Security Council, stressing that global governance structures must reflect the realities of the 21st century.

Nigeria’s delegation is also expected to use the UNGA platform to draw attention to pressing regional challenges, including insecurity in the Sahel, piracy in the Gulf of Guinea, and the humanitarian consequences of conflicts across West Africa.

Nigeria has historically used the UNGA to press for global cooperation on issues of peace, development, and climate justice. At last year’s assembly, President Tinubu emphasized the need for partnerships that enable African nations to harness their natural resources for sustainable growth. This year, Vice President Shettima is expected to expand on that vision by showcasing Nigeria as a hub for investment and innovation on the continent.

The 80th Session of UNGA is taking place in New York from September 20 to 27, with world leaders gathering under the theme “Rebuilding Trust and Reigniting Global Solidarity.”