Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States.
Shettima departed Abuja on September 20 after President Tinubu mandated him to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the annual gathering of world leaders. His return was announced on Monday by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.
Shettima Presents Nigeria’s Position at UNGA
During the General Debate of the 81st UNGA, Shettima delivered Nigeria’s national statement on behalf of President Tinubu.
Nigeria used the platform to renew its call for reform of the United Nations Security Council, including permanent representation for Africa.
The Federal Government also advanced positions on development financing, climate support, international cooperation and reforms to the global financial system.
Shettima had earlier said Nigeria’s participation at the UNGA would be guided by the country’s national interests and its commitment to multilateral cooperation.
Vice President Attends Africa Minerals Strategy Meeting
During his engagements in New York, Shettima participated in the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group.
He called on African countries to move beyond the export of raw minerals and develop greater capacity for processing, manufacturing and value addition.
According to the Federal Ministry of Information, Shettima said Africa’s mineral resources should contribute more directly to job creation, industrial development and improved living standards across the continent.
Nigeria Reaffirms Commitment to Education
Shettima also participated in a high-level event on education financing co-hosted by Nigeria and Italy.
At the event, he reaffirmed Nigeria’s position that education remains an important investment in human capital, productivity and long-term national development.
Nigeria also supported the Global Partnership for Education’s campaign to mobilise additional financing for education.
Shettima Meets Nigerians in Diaspora
The Vice President also met with Nigerians living in the diaspora during his stay in New York.
At the engagement, he highlighted the potential contribution of Nigerians abroad through investment, expertise, professional networks and partnerships.
The meeting formed part of Nigeria’s broader effort to strengthen engagement with its citizens and communities outside the country.
Other High-Level Meetings
According to the Presidency, Shettima also held engagements with the new leadership of the ECOWAS Commission and UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed.
The meetings covered issues relating to regional integration, development, economic cooperation, peace and security.
Nigeria's delegation also used the UNGA platform to engage with international organisations, governments and development partners on issues of strategic importance to the country and Africa.
Shettima Returns After Week of UN Engagements
Shettima's return marks the conclusion of his official assignment at the 81st UN General Assembly, where he represented President Tinubu and led Nigeria's delegation.
The 81st UNGA General Debate ran from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”
The Presidency said Nigeria's participation focused on strengthening the country's voice in global affairs, advancing reform of international institutions and deepening cooperation on development, climate action, economic growth and security.
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