(L-R) Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, and Vice President Kashim Shettima, interact shortly after the VP’s arrival the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, in New York, United States. (Photo: @stanleynkwocha_)
Nigeria will use its engagements at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to advance calls for reforms of global institutions and promote the country’s national interests, Vice President Kashim Shettima has said.
Shettima made the remarks shortly after arriving in New York, United States, on Monday to represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the high-level UN gathering.
According to a statement signed by his media aide, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima said Nigeria’s participation would be guided by its commitment to multilateralism and Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms that reflect current global economic and demographic realities.
“Our message in New York is clear. Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions that govern our world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to the realities of today,” Shettima said.
He added, “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.”
During the General Debate, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on major international issues affecting peace and security, development, economic growth and global cooperation.
The Vice President is also scheduled to participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral discussions with world leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the General Assembly.
Nigeria is expected to use the engagements to reiterate its positions on reform of the international financial architecture, sustainable development, climate finance, access to technology and stronger African representation in global decision-making.
The discussions are also expected to provide an avenue for Nigeria to engage international partners on issues of national and regional importance while advancing its broader diplomatic and economic interests.
