On Wednesday, Vice President Kashim Shettima will represent President Bola Tinubu by delivering Nigeria’s national address at the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) session currently underway.
The speech is slated to take place between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. New York time, focusing on critical themes such as multilateral cooperation, reform of the United Nations, climate change initiatives, and the restructuring of international financial systems.
Last year, President Tinubu utilized this platform to advocate for Africa’s inclusion as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council-a proposal that is now under active consideration by the global body.
On Tuesday, Vice President Shettima participated in the Assembly’s inaugural session alongside other global leaders, where U.S. President Donald Trump delivered the keynote address to officially welcome the delegates.
Following the opening, Shettima held bilateral discussions with Namibia’s President Nandi-Ndaitbia on the sidelines. During their meeting, the Namibian leader announced plans for an official visit to Nigeria to meet with President Tinubu.
Having assumed office on March 21, 2025, President Nandi-Ndaitbia commended Nigerian diplomats for their significant support to Namibia, highlighting their pivotal role in strengthening her administration and nation.
“Many of the Nigerian diplomats have essentially become part of Namibia’s progress, offering invaluable assistance,” she remarked, recognizing Nigeria’s influential leadership within the African continent.
She expressed her intention to capitalize on the UNGA gathering to connect with Vice President Shettima, adding, “I look forward to personally visiting Nigeria to formally introduce myself to the President.”
Vice President Shettima responded by emphasizing Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing its partnership with Namibia, stating, “As fellow Africans, it is imperative that the Nigeria-Namibia relationship advances beyond its current scope.”
The meeting included key officials from both nations, such as Nigeria’s Foreign Affairs Minister Amb. Yusuf Tuggar, Minister of Women Affairs Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa.
In another significant engagement, Vice President Shettima met with a delegation from the Gates Foundation, led by CEO Mark Suzman. He expressed gratitude for the Foundation’s ongoing support in sectors like healthcare, agriculture, and financial inclusion, while urging for increased investment in Nigeria.
“The Gates Foundation stands as a trusted and committed partner. If more high-net-worth individuals matched even a fraction of Bill Gates’ contributions, global challenges could be addressed more effectively,” Shettima remarked.
