Vice President Shettima to Lead Nigeria's Delegation to UNGA as President Tinubu Focuses on Domestic Issues

President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this year. Instead, Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria’s delegation to the event.

In a statement signed by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, it was revealed that Tinubu made the decision to stay in Nigeria to address pressing domestic issues. These include dealing with the aftermath of recent severe flooding that has impacted parts of the country.

A section of the statement read: “President Tinubu, who returned to the country last Sunday after his trip to China and the United Kingdom, wants to focus on domestic issues and address some of the country’s challenges, especially after the recent devastating flooding.”

Vice President Shettima will represent Nigeria at the General Assembly, delivering Nigeria's national statement, attending critical sideline events, and engaging in bilateral meetings with other leaders.

The 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, September 24, to Saturday, September 28, 2024.

The theme for this year's UNGA is “Leaving No One Behind: Working Together to Advance Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Current and Future Generations.”