President Bola Tinubu has delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, scheduled to take place from September 24 to 28, 2024.
This was announced in a press statement issued on Thursday, September 19, by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
According to the statement, President Tinubu, who recently returned from diplomatic trips to China and the United Kingdom (UK), has decided to forgo attending this year’s UNGA to focus on addressing pressing domestic challenges, particularly the aftermath of the devastating floods that have impacted several parts of the country.
According to the statement Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the General Assembly and participate in key sideline events.
He is also expected to engage in high-level bilateral meetings with world leaders and international partners on matters of mutual interest.
The theme for this year’s high-level General Debate, “Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations,” highlights the global focus on collective efforts toward peace and sustainability.
President Tinubu’s decision to prioritize domestic issues comes in the wake of widespread flooding that has affected thousands of Nigerians.
The President is keen to implement necessary interventions to mitigate the damage and ensure that the country swiftly recovers from the disaster.