Tinubu mandates Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to UNGA

President Bola Tinubu has appointed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria's delegation to the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This decision followed weeks of speculation about whether Tinubu himself would attend the event. Previously, Nigeria's UN envoy, Jimoh Ibrahim, had stated that the president would personally attend, arranging accommodations for him to sit near Donald Trump.

However, Tinubu had embarked on a three-week vacation in Europe, first visiting London and then France, leading to doubts about his attendance at the UNGA. The Presidency confirmed on Sunday that Shettima would lead the delegation, comprising high-ranking individuals such as Governors Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State and Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State, along with ministers and other senior officials.

Tinubu congratulated by-election winners in four states, while a Katsina politician mentioned potential support for Tinubu in the 2027 elections. The 81st UNGA General Debate is scheduled from September 22 to 28, 2026, with Shettima set to deliver Nigeria's national statement, discuss critical global issues, and participate in various high-level meetings throughout the week.