Nigeria To Push For Global Institutional Reforms As Shettima Leads Delegation At 81st UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The statement from the Vice President’s office emphasized that Nigeria’s objectives at the global forum would be guided by the nation’s interests, a commitment to multilateralism, and President Bola Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms in global institutions.

Shettima highlighted that Nigeria recognizes the importance of multilateralism but believes the governing bodies must better reflect today’s economic and demographic landscape. In a statement released by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said, "We will engage our partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria’s national interest while advancing President Tinubu’s call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and a fairer opportunity to prosper."

Accompanying Shettima were a range of senior government officials including Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State, the Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite, and various other representatives from different ministries as well as the Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim.

The delegation is scheduled to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate, where Shettima will articulate the country’s stance on critical international issues such as peace and security, development, economic growth, and global cooperation. Additionally, Shettima will engage in numerous high-level meetings and bilateral discussions with world leaders, international organizations, and development partners outside of the General Assembly.

Nigeria’s presence in New York is anticipated to highlight the nation’s positions on reforms in international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access, and the demand for greater African representation in global decision-making.