Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria’s engagements at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York will be guided by the country’s national interest and commitment to multilateral cooperation.
Shettima made the statement on Monday after arriving in New York to represent President Bola Tinubu at the high-level gathering. He arrived alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka-Anite and other senior government officials.
The Vice President said Nigeria would use its participation at the UN to advocate reforms that would make global institutions more representative and responsive to current economic and demographic realities.
He said the country remained committed to multilateralism but would engage its international partners based on Nigeria’s interests while supporting efforts to give developing countries a stronger voice in global affairs.
“We will engage our partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria’s national interest,” Shettima said.
During the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on issues affecting international peace and security, development, economic growth and global cooperation.
He is also scheduled to participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral discussions with foreign leaders, international organizations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
According to the State House, Nigeria will use the engagements to advance its positions on reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, access to technology and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
Shettima’s attendance follows Tinubu’s decision to mandate him to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UN General Assembly, whose high-level General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 28.
The Vice President is expected to return to Nigeria after concluding his engagements in New York.
