ABUJA: Vice-President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States, on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Presidency disclosed this in a statement issued by Shettima’s Media Assistant, Stanley Nkwocha, on Sunday, September 20, 2026.
Shettima will head a high-level Nigerian delegation comprising Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers and other senior government officials.
The 81st UN General Assembly General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme: “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.
During the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the Federal Government’s position on major international issues affecting the country and the wider African continent.
His address will cover issues relating to national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
Beyond the General Debate, the Vice-President is expected to participate in a series of high-level meetings and engagements during the UNGA week.
According to the Presidency, some of the discussions will focus on the Right to Development, climate action and other matters considered strategically important to Nigeria and Africa.
Shettima will also join other world leaders at the traditional reception for Heads of Delegation.
The Vice-President is further expected to hold bilateral meetings with leaders of other countries, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
The Federal Government said the engagements will provide Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen its economic diplomacy and deepen strategic partnerships with international partners.
The delegation is also expected to advance Nigeria’s position on reforms to the global financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance and multilateral cooperation.
The Presidency said the meetings would also provide an avenue for Nigeria to strengthen its voice on international issues affecting the country’s economic and development priorities.
The Nigerian delegation includes Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara and Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, alongside ministers and other senior government officials.
Their participation is expected to complement the Federal Government’s diplomatic and development engagements during the UNGA week.
Shettima is scheduled to return to Nigeria after completing his official engagements in New York.
The 81st UN General Assembly brings together representatives of countries from around the world for discussions on global challenges, international cooperation, development and peace and security.
Vice-President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, representing President Bola Tinubu at high-level global meetings.
