Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.
The Presidency announced the decision on Sunday through Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima’s media aide.
The Shettima UN General Assembly assignment will see the Vice President lead a high-level delegation to the global diplomatic gathering.
The delegation will include Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.
Shettima to Deliver Nigeria’s National Statement
The General Debate of the 81st UN General Assembly will run from September 22 to 28, 2026.
This year’s theme is “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
During the debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement.
His address is expected to outline Nigeria’s positions on issues linked to national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
The Shettima UN General Assembly schedule will also include several high-level meetings during the UNGA week.
VP to Attend High-Level Meetings
Shettima is expected to participate in discussions on the Right to Development and climate action.
He will also attend the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation.
In addition, the Vice President is expected to hold bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners.
The Presidency said the engagements will give Nigeria an opportunity to strengthen strategic partnerships.
It also said the meetings will support the administration’s economic diplomacy and discussions on global financial reforms, sustainable development and climate finance.
Nigeria’s UNGA Engagement
Shettima’s assignment comes as Nigeria prepares for another round of diplomatic engagements at the United Nations.
The Vice President has represented Tinubu at other major international meetings, including the 2026 BRICS Leaders’ Summit in India.
Nigeria has also continued to push for reforms to global governance and international financial institutions.
Against this backdrop, the Shettima UN General Assembly engagement is expected to focus on Nigeria’s diplomatic, economic and development priorities.
For more on Nigeria’s planned participation in the summit, Read our report on Tinubu’s UN General Assembly plans.
Shettima is expected to return to Nigeria after completing his engagements in New York.