Nigeria’s Vice-President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has departed Abuja, the nation’s capital, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the country at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) taking place in New York, United States of America.
The annual global gathering, which brings together world leaders, diplomats, and policymakers from across the globe, will address pressing international challenges, ranging from climate change and economic development to global security and peacebuilding. Vice-President Shettima’s presence is expected to highlight Nigeria’s growing role on the international stage and its continued commitment to multilateralism, diplomacy, and global cooperation.
Nigeria’s Representation at UNGA 80
The United Nations General Assembly is one of the most important diplomatic events of the year. It provides a platform for nations, both large and small, to articulate their positions on global issues, forge alliances, and participate in collective decision-making.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s trip underscores the Nigerian government’s determination to engage fully with the international community, especially at a time when Africa’s voice is increasingly being sought in global policy conversations. His attendance also reflects the confidence reposed in him by President Tinubu to project Nigeria’s foreign policy agenda and national interests on the world stage.
During the session, Vice-President Shettima is expected to participate in high-level meetings, bilateral discussions with world leaders, and specialized forums dedicated to sustainable development, climate action, global health, and regional peace.
Nigeria’s Priorities at UNGA 80
As Africa’s most populous country and one of the continent’s largest economies, Nigeria’s contributions at the UNGA are closely watched. Key issues expected to dominate Nigeria’s agenda at this year’s assembly include:
1. Global Peace and Security
Nigeria continues to grapple with security challenges, from insurgency in the Northeast to banditry and kidnapping in other parts of the country. At the UNGA, Vice-President Shettima is anticipated to call for greater international collaboration in combating terrorism and transnational crime, while also highlighting the Nigerian government’s ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability.
2. Climate Change and Environmental Resilience
With devastating floods, desertification, and rising temperatures impacting agriculture and livelihoods, climate change remains a central concern for Nigeria. The Vice-President is expected to advocate for increased support from developed countries, both in terms of finance and technology transfer, to help Nigeria and other African states adapt to climate shocks while promoting green growth.
3. Economic Development and Investment
Nigeria is undergoing significant reforms aimed at boosting investment, diversifying the economy, and improving ease of doing business. The UNGA provides a unique opportunity for Vice-President Shettima to engage investors, development partners, and international organizations to attract investment into Nigeria’s critical sectors such as energy, infrastructure, agriculture, and digital innovation.
4. Global Health and Human Development
The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the urgent need for stronger healthcare systems worldwide. Nigeria is expected to call for more equitable global health partnerships, access to vaccines, and increased investment in Africa’s health infrastructure. Vice-President Shettima will also emphasize Nigeria’s progress in reducing poverty, expanding education, and empowering women and youth.
Shettima’s Growing Role in Foreign Affairs
Although primarily known for his political and administrative leadership within Nigeria, Vice-President Shettima has been increasingly active in representing the country at international forums since assuming office in May 2023. His experience as a former governor of Borno State, where he managed complex security and humanitarian challenges, gives him unique insight into some of the issues under discussion at the United Nations.
His presence at UNGA 80 further cements his status as a key figure in Nigeria’s foreign policy team. Observers note that Shettima’s diplomatic engagements will help reinforce Nigeria’s global partnerships, particularly in advancing peace and development across Africa.
Nigeria’s Track Record at the UNGA
Nigeria has consistently played an active role in the United Nations since joining the body in 1960. Over the decades, Nigerian leaders have used the General Assembly platform to advocate for decolonization, global peace, economic justice, and African unity.
In recent years, Nigeria has emphasized the need for reform of multilateral institutions, especially the United Nations Security Council, to give Africa a stronger voice in global decision-making. With Africa’s growing population and economic potential, Nigerian officials have argued that the continent must no longer remain marginalized in key global governance structures.
Vice-President Shettima is expected to reaffirm this stance while also seeking greater international support for Nigeria’s domestic reforms and regional leadership.
Global Challenges on the Agenda
The 80th session of the UN General Assembly comes at a time of deep global uncertainty. The world continues to face overlapping crises, including:
- Geopolitical tensions in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia that threaten global peace and stability.
- Economic inequality between developed and developing nations, exacerbated by inflation, debt, and uneven recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Climate change, which has triggered extreme weather events, displacement, and food insecurity in vulnerable regions.
- Technological disruption, raising new questions about digital governance, cyber security, and the ethical use of artificial intelligence.
Against this backdrop, Nigeria’s participation under the leadership of Vice-President Shettima signals the country’s readiness to contribute constructively to solutions while advancing its national priorities.
Strengthening Nigeria–US Relations
Shettima’s presence in New York also provides an opportunity to deepen Nigeria’s relationship with the United States. As one of Nigeria’s largest trading partners and a critical ally in security and governance support, the US remains a central pillar of Nigeria’s foreign policy.
While attending the UNGA, the Vice-President is expected to hold bilateral meetings with American officials, business leaders, and the Nigerian diaspora community. These engagements are expected to reinforce cooperation in trade, education, health, energy, and technology, while also addressing issues such as migration and global security.
Nigeria’s Leadership in Africa
Beyond bilateral engagements, Vice-President Shettima’s trip will highlight Nigeria’s leadership role within Africa. As the largest economy in West Africa and a founding member of the African Union, Nigeria often serves as a voice for the continent at global forums.
Shettima’s speeches and meetings at the UNGA are expected to reflect not only Nigeria’s national concerns but also broader African priorities such as debt relief, fair trade, and regional stability. This aligns with President Tinubu’s consistent advocacy for Africa’s stronger inclusion in global governance structures.
Conclusion: Nigeria’s Voice at the UNGA 80
Vice-President Kashim Shettima’s departure from Abuja to attend the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly marks another milestone in Nigeria’s long-standing engagement with the global community.
His mission in New York goes beyond ceremonial representation; it underscores Nigeria’s commitment to shaping international dialogue on peace, development, and sustainability. From climate change to economic reform, from global security to healthcare, the Vice-President is expected to project Nigeria’s vision of a more just, inclusive, and prosperous world.
As global attention turns to New York, Nigeria’s active participation under Shettima’s leadership reinforces the nation’s role as not just Africa’s giant, but also a significant contributor to global peace, progress, and partnership.
