In a strategic move, President Bola Tinubu has appointed Vice President Kashim Shettima to head Nigeria’s delegation at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This decision comes as Tinubu prioritizes addressing pressing domestic issues over international engagements.

Having just returned from a working visit to China and the United Kingdom, President Tinubu aims to tackle significant challenges facing Nigeria, particularly following recent devastating flooding. The announcement was made on Thursday, September 19, by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy.

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In his statement, Onanuga confirmed that President Tinubu will not attend the UNGA this year. Instead, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, participate in crucial sideline events, and engage in bilateral meetings during the assembly.

The high-level General Debate, themed “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” is scheduled to take place from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.