Tinubu Won’t Attend UNGA 81 in New York, Shettima to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will not be physically present at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, with Vice President Kashim Shettima set to lead Nigeria’s delegation.

The Presidency announced the development as Tinubu prepares to return to Nigeria following his three-week stay in Europe. Stanley Nkwocha, spokesman to the Vice President, confirmed the President’s decision in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement, Tinubu has directed Shettima to represent him at the high-level UNGA meetings in New York.

The President’s absence was further reflected in the provisional list of speakers for the General Debate, which lists Vice President Shettima as Nigeria’s representative. Tinubu had initially been scheduled to speak during the morning session on Wednesday, September 23.

The 81st session of the UN General Assembly opened on September 8, while the high-level week is scheduled to run from September 22 to 29 in New York City.

The change comes after earlier reports that Tinubu was expected to attend the gathering and address world leaders on issues relating to Nigeria.

The Presidency has not indicated any change in Nigeria’s participation in the high-level meetings, with Shettima expected to lead the country’s delegation and represent the administration at the international gathering.

Nigeria’s delegation is expected to participate in the various diplomatic engagements and discussions scheduled during the high-level week.