‘Nigeria is not the only one’ – Gov Sule defends Tinubu’s UNGA absence

Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has defended President Bola Tinubu's absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, stating that other world leaders are also not attending. During a virtual interview with TVC, Sule emphasized that Nigeria's diplomatic presence at the global meeting remained strong, as Vice President Kashim Shettima represents the country and is set to deliver the national statement on Thursday.

Shettima has performed this role at the UN General Assembly for the third consecutive year. Sule noted that many countries have similarly sent vice presidents, foreign ministers, and other high-ranking officials to represent them, highlighting the importance of a country's presence rather than the head of government's attendance.

He also revealed that Shettima had received over 30 requests for bilateral meetings with foreign leaders and officials, underscoring Nigeria's continued international attention at the General Assembly. Sule suggested that Tinubu's decision not to attend the event could be justified, as those directly involved in the decision-making process would be best equipped to explain it.

Despite Tinubu's absence, Sule affirmed that Nigeria's pursuit of reforms to the UN Security Council, including a permanent seat for Africa, could continue through alternative platforms such as the African Union, ECOWAS, and bilateral engagements. Shettima, who attended the opening of the high-level General Debate at UN Headquarters on Tuesday, is scheduled to present Nigeria's national statement on Thursday, focusing on international cooperation, development, peace, and security.

Sule, attending the UNGA with Nigeria's delegation, is seeking investment and partnerships for Nasarawa State, particularly focusing on its critical minerals sector, including a recently commissioned lithium processing plant.