Tinubu Hands Shettima Major UNGA Assignment, VP To Lead Nigeria’s Delegation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not attend the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States, and has instead directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the global gathering.

According to Bush Radio Academy, the Presidency confirmed the development on Sunday, ending weeks of uncertainty over whether President Tinubu would personally attend the annual UN meeting. The decision differs from earlier indications that the President was expected to travel to New York for the event.

Shettima will lead a high-level 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 country’s position on major international issues and matters relating to national development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.

The Vice President is also expected to participate in high-level meetings focused on issues including the right to development, climate action and other matters considered important to Nigeria and the African continent.

According to the Presidency, Shettima will further participate in the traditional reception for heads of delegation and hold bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.

The engagements are expected to provide Nigeria with an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic partnerships and advance the Tinubu administration’s economic diplomacy, including discussions on sustainable development, climate finance, international cooperation and reforms to the global financial system.

The decision to have Shettima lead the delegation follows earlier reports that Tinubu was expected to attend the 81st UNGA. Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, had said in July that the President had confirmed plans to attend the gathering.

With the latest decision, Shettima will now represent Nigeria at one of the United Nations’ major annual diplomatic gatherings and speak on behalf of the country on the global stage.