The 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York has begun, with several African leaders attending high-level meetings. Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, is present in New York, representing President Bola Tinubu, who remains abroad. Tinubu has been away since August 30 on a working vacation, while Shettima arrived in the U.S. On September 20.
Shettima has received a detailed briefing on Nigeria’s priorities for the UNGA, according to local media. His participation marks Nigeria’s continued engagement in global diplomacy. Meanwhile, other African leaders, including South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa and Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, are also in New York, though none of their presidents are attending in person.
The absence of several African leaders has raised questions about their availability for key diplomatic events. Some analysts suggest that the absence of heads of state could impact the effectiveness of their nations’ participation in the assembly.
The UNGA has seen a range of discussions, including topics like artificial intelligence and international cooperation. Nigeria’s delegation is expected to focus on these issues, with Shettima playing a central role in representing the country’s interests.
