Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), which kicks off on Monday and runs until September 28.
Naijaonpoint reports that Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the high-level General Debate, announce the country’s new Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement, and participate in bilateral meetings, side events, and roundtables.
Tinubu had initially been scheduled to address the assembly, but a revised list of speakers confirmed that Shettima would now present Nigeria’s position.
The Vice President is billed to speak on Wednesday during the afternoon session.
On arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport, Shettima was received by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar; Minister of Defence, Badaru Abubakar; and Nigeria’s Chargé d’Affaires at the Permanent Mission to the UN, Samson Itegboje.
Others at the airport included the Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology, Uche Nnaji; Nigeria’s Defence Attaché in New York, Brig.-Gen. Edward Koleoso, and Defence Attaché in Washington, Group Capt. Sani Kalgo.
Push for Security Council Seat, Global Tax Reform
Speaking on Nigeria’s priorities for UNGA 80, Tuggar said the country would push for the adoption of a United Nations Global Convention on Taxation and continue to canvass for Africa’s permanent representation on the UN Security Council.
“This is something that has put Nigeria in the position of leadership,” Tuggar stated.
“We also promote Nigeria’s push to become a permanent member of the Security Council, because Africa has a common position, the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration, that calls for at least two permanent seats.”
He added that Nigeria would also restate its contributions to peacekeeping and address global conflicts in Gaza, Eastern Congo, and Sudan.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, who is also in New York, said Nigeria’s participation would reinforce its image as a leading African economy.
“We are looking at areas of strength such as solid minerals, agriculture, and skills-based education. The Vice President’s presentation on Wednesday will further reposition Nigeria as Africa’s leading economy,” he said.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Olajumoke Oduwole, revealed that Nigeria would also use the UNGA platform to woo investors.
“On Monday, we are hosting Nigeria Investment Day, highlighting solid minerals, telecommunications, and technology. It is to show the reforms the Nigerian economy has undergone in the last two years and to engage our partners on where we are headed,” she explained.
Naijaonpoint reports that during the week-long session, Shettima will also participate in the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting and meet with the Prime Minister of Sudan, alongside other diplomatic engagements.
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