Report: Nigeria At Risk Of Missing Key Speaking Slot On Opening Day Of UN General Assembly

Report: Nigeria At Risk Of Missing Key Speaking Slot On Opening Day Of UN General Assembly....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Initially expected to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the 79th United Nations General Assembly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has opted to address local issues instead, particularly the severe flooding in Maiduguri, Borno State. Consequently, Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent Nigeria at the assembly, which kicks off today, September 24……..CONTINUE READING 

This change has raised concerns about Nigeria’s speaking slot, as it was originally assigned to President Tinubu. The uncertainty was reported by Laolu Akande of Empowered Newswire, highlighting worries among Nigerian diplomats that the absence of the president could impact the prominence of Nigeria’s representation.

Tinubu’s decision was officially communicated in a statement last Thursday by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, confirming that Vice President Shettima would deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in key events.

Diplomatic protocols typically prioritize heads of state over vice presidents in speaking order, prompting anxieties about Nigeria’s placement in the assembly. Questions arose during a press briefing with UN spokespersons regarding whether the change in leadership would affect Nigeria’s speaking position.

While the UN protocols state that a vice president would be placed last in their category if replacing a president, it remains to be seen if Nigeria will maintain its originally assigned slot. A senior diplomat indicated that the Permanent Mission of Nigeria to the UN was working to preserve the initial speaking position, asserting that Shettima would still address the assembly today.

As the UN General Assembly unfolds, it has attracted significant global participation, with 76 heads of state, numerous vice presidents, and government officials confirmed to attend. Nigeria is set to conclude the first day’s discussions, which focus on the theme “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations.”