Vice President Kashim Shettima has touched down in New York City to participate in the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly, which will run from Monday, September 22 through Sunday, September 28, 2025.
Acting on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, the Vice President is slated to present Nigeria’s official address at this prominent international forum, engage in the UN’s high-level debates, and attend a variety of related side events.
Meanwhile, Foreign Affairs Minister Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar has reaffirmed Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening multilateral cooperation and fostering strategic global partnerships.
According to a statement from his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, during his stay in New York, Vice President Shettima will unveil Nigeria’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement. He will also participate in the Global Champions’ high-level roundtable focused on affordable and adequate housing, deliver Nigeria’s national statement, and hold multiple bilateral discussions and engagements.
Upon arrival, Senator Shettima was warmly welcomed by Ambassador Tuggar, Defence Minister Alhaji Mohammed Badaru Abubakar, Nigeria’s Permanent Mission Charge d’Affaires to the UN Ambassador Samson Itegboje, Minister of Innovation, Science and Technology Chief Uche Nnaji, as well as senior military attachés including Brigadier General Edward Koleoso and Group Captain Sani Kalgo.
Ambassador Tuggar highlighted Nigeria’s key objectives for this year’s UNGA, emphasizing the country’s leadership role in advocating for the United Nations Global Convention on Taxation-a pivotal element in the ongoing efforts to overhaul the international financial system.
He explained, “Nigeria’s leadership in this area is evident. During the Vice President’s briefing, we had ministers and senior officials present to ensure a unified approach. Our goal is to actively promote this initiative while also advancing Nigeria’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, aligned with Africa’s collective stance.”
The Minister underscored that Africa uniquely maintains a unified position on Security Council reform, advocating for at least two permanent seats for the continent, as outlined in the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.
“Peacekeeping remains a critical focus. Nigeria has contributed to one of the 60 UN peacekeeping missions to date. We aim to ensure that our peacekeeping efforts-both in personnel and financial support-are recognized fairly, avoiding double burdens,” he added.
Ambassador Tuggar also reiterated Nigeria’s stance on ongoing conflicts in the Middle East, particularly Gaza and Palestine, as well as the situations in Eastern Congo and Sudan. The Vice President is scheduled to meet with Sudan’s Prime Minister and will participate in the African Union Peace and Security Council meeting during the assembly.
Governor of Kaduna State, Senator Uba Sani, expressed optimism that Nigeria’s engagement at the 80th UNGA will enhance the country’s profile as a prime investment hub and a leading African economy.
“We are focusing on our strengths and opportunities. Alongside ministers and fellow governors, we are exploring sectors such as solid minerals, where Nigeria shows remarkable potential,” he said.
“Additionally, we are targeting investments in agriculture and skills-based education to further diversify and strengthen our economy. The Vice President’s address, scheduled for Wednesday, is expected to reinforce Nigeria’s position as a top economic player in Africa,” the governor added.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment Dr. Olajumoke Omoniyi Oduwole highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to sustainable development, aligning it closely with national objectives.
“Nigeria will host several side events, including Nigeria Investment Day on Monday, which Vice President Shettima will attend. This event will showcase priority sectors such as solid minerals and the full spectrum of telecommunications and technology,” she stated.
“Our aim is to advance the Renewed Hope Agenda by spotlighting key investment areas that have driven economic reforms over the past two years. We want to ensure that all international partners attending the event in New York are fully informed about Nigeria’s current progress and future direction,” Dr. Oduwole concluded.
