UNGA: Idris Reveals Why Tinubu Chose Shettima To Represent Him In New York

Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has explained that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s decision to send Vice-President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the 81st United Nations General Assembly is connected to the President’s ongoing annual leave.

According to Bush Radio Academy, Idris said Shettima would lead Nigeria’s delegation to the high-level gathering in New York with the full mandate of the President and the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The minister explained that Tinubu’s decision to have his deputy represent the country at the UNGA was neither unusual nor a reflection of any reduction in Nigeria’s diplomatic standing.

Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate and participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners.

Idris said the Vice-President’s engagements would cover major international issues, including peace and security, economic development, climate action, reform of the global financial system, sustainable development and international cooperation.

The Federal Government has therefore maintained that Nigeria would be fully represented throughout the high-level session despite the President’s absence.

The 81st UN General Assembly General Debate is scheduled to hold from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”

The Information Minister also acknowledged criticism surrounding Tinubu’s absence from the gathering, including comments attributed to former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying organisation.

However, Idris maintained that Shettima’s representation carries the authority of the President and Nigeria, with the Vice-President expected to advance the country’s interests through his engagements at the international forum.

The decision comes as Shettima continues to represent Tinubu at major international engagements when the President is unavailable. The State House previously confirmed that Shettima represented Tinubu at the 69th ECOWAS summit in Sierra Leone in July.