Nigeria: Tinubu Stays Back from UNGA79 Trip

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

The Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has decided to forego attending the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this year. Instead, Vice President Kashim Shettima will head Nigeria’s delegation to the annual summit.

The decision, communicated through a statement from the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, emphasizes Tinubu’s commitment to addressing pressing domestic issues.

The statement, titled ‘Vice President Shettima to Lead Nigeria’s Delegation to the 79th United Nations General Assembly,’ highlights Tinubu’s focus on resolving national challenges, particularly in the wake of recent severe flooding.

Tinubu, who returned to Nigeria last Sunday following visits to China and the United Kingdom, has prioritized tackling the aftermath of the flooding over international engagements.

The statement notes, “President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York this year. Therefore, the President has directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation.”

During the UNGA 79, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement, participate in critical sideline events, and engage in bilateral meetings.

The high-level General Debate, themed “Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations,” is scheduled to run from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.