VP Shettima Arrives UN Headquarters for Opening of 81st UNGA General Debate
Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived at the United Nations Headquarters in New York for the opening of the General Debate of the 81st United Nations General Assembly. Shettima is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and leading Nigeria’s delegation at the high-level international gathering, which commenced on Tuesday, September 22, 2026. The General Debate is scheduled to continue through September 26 and resume on September 28.
The Vice President is accompanied by senior members of Nigeria’s delegation, including Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations Jimoh Ibrahim, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, Defence Minister Christopher Musa and Minister of Solid Minerals Development Dele Alake. President Tinubu had earlier mandated Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation at the 81st UN General Assembly. The Presidency has also confirmed that Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the gathering.
The UN General Debate brings together heads of state, heads of government and other senior representatives to discuss major international issues. The theme of the 81st session is “this Restoring Trust, Managing Transformation: A United Nations That Delivers for All.”
The discussions during the high-level week cover issues including peace and security, sustainable development, climate change, international cooperation and other global challenges.
Nigeria’s Representation
With Shettima leading the Nigerian delegation, the country is expected to use the international gathering to present its positions and priorities on issues of national and global importance. The Vice President’s participation comes as President Tinubu remains outside Nigeria following an extended working vacation. The State House said on September 21 that Tinubu is expected to return to Nigeria at the weekend.
For Nigeria, the UN General Assembly provides an opportunity for its government to engage other countries, international organisations and global leaders on matters affecting the country and the wider international community.
What This Means for Nigerians
Shettima’s representation places Nigeria’s government among the delegations participating in discussions on major global issues at the UN. The significance for Nigerians will depend on the commitments, discussions and outcomes that emerge from Nigeria’s participation, particularly on issues such as development, security, climate action, international cooperation and economic relations.