Tinubu’s UN absence didn’t affect Nigeria’s position — Jimoh Ibrahim

Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, has defended President Bola Tinubu's absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly, asserting it did not impact Nigeria's influential standing during the event. Speaking on Channels Television's Politics Today, Ibrahim highlighted that over 60% of the officials scheduled to address the assembly were represented by vice presidents or foreign ministers, making Tinubu's travel unnecessary for a brief speech.

Vice President Kashim Shettima spoke on behalf of Tinubu and delivered Nigeria's official statement. Ibrahim also pointed out that prominent nations, such as South Africa, China, and Russia, were not represented by their presidents at the assembly. He had previously secured a prominent seat for Nigeria, occupying the sixth position in the front row of the General Assembly chamber, despite Donald Trump's brief appearance.

Ibrahim emphasized the significance of Nigeria's position and commended his efforts. Speaking about Tinubu's recent European trip, which lasted four weeks, Ibrahim dismissed concerns, stating that the President did not breach any constitutional provisions. He explained that a working leave differed from an absolute leave and that the President's absence did not violate the Constitution.