Vice President Kashim Shettima has left Abuja for New York, where he will attend the 79th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). This comes as President Bola Tinubu, focused on addressing urgent domestic issues such as the recent devastating floods, tasked the Vice President with leading Nigeria’s delegation to the high-profile international event.
A statement released on Sunday by Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media & Communications (Office of the Vice President), confirmed Shettima’s departure at the President’s directive. The annual UNGA session provides a platform for world leaders to engage in discussions and deliberate on global challenges.
During the session, Vice President Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, addressing key issues concerning the country’s role in global peace, security, and sustainable development. In addition to his address, Shettima will participate in various high-level meetings, both on the sidelines of the General Debate and through bilateral engagements with other nations.
The General Debate, which is scheduled to take place from September 24 to 28, 2024, will focus on the theme: “Leaving no One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations.” This theme aligns with Nigeria’s priorities, particularly in areas related to peacebuilding, economic development, and human rights, all of which are pressing concerns at home and globally.
Shettima’s participation at the UNGA highlights Nigeria’s continued engagement with international partners to address global challenges while simultaneously striving to tackle pressing issues on the domestic front. His role in representing the country on this global stage underscores the importance of Nigeria’s active contribution to global dialogue on sustainable development, peace, and human dignity.
