Shettima says Nigeria will prioritise national interest at UNGA

Vice President Kashim Shettima has said Nigeria will prioritise its national interest as it engages world leaders at the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

Shettima stated this after arriving in New York to represent President Bola Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the high-level meeting.

He said Nigeria would continue to support multilateralism while advocating reforms to global institutions to reflect current economic and demographic realities.

“Our message in New York is clear. Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions that govern our world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to the realities of today,” Shettima said.

The Vice President said Nigeria would engage its international partners based on the country’s national interest while seeking greater opportunities for developing countries.

“We will engage our partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria’s national interest while advancing President Tinubu’s call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and a fairer opportunity to prosper,” he said.

The 81st UN General Assembly’s high-level General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 26 and September 28 at the UN headquarters in New York.

Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, outlining the country’s position on issues including peace and security, development, economic growth and international cooperation.

He is also expected to participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with foreign leaders and representatives of international organisations during the General Assembly.

Among the issues expected to feature in Nigeria’s engagements are reforms to the international financial system, sustainable development, climate finance, technology access and greater African representation in global decision-making.

Shettima arrived in New York alongside Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning Doris Uzoka-Anite and other senior government officials.