Vice President Kashim Shettima has returned to Nigeria after representing President Bola Tinubu at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, United States.
Shettima left Abuja on September 20 after President Tinubu assigned him to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the annual gathering of world leaders.
During the General Debate, Shettima delivered Nigeria’s national statement, where the country renewed its position on reforming the United Nations Security Council to provide stronger and more permanent African representation.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha, Nigeria also called for a fairer global financial system, increased climate support and stronger international cooperation.
At the Third High-Level Roundtable of the Africa Minerals Strategy Group, Shettima called on African countries to move beyond exporting raw minerals and instead invest more in processing, manufacturing and value addition.
The Vice President also represented Nigeria at a high-level education financing meeting jointly hosted by Nigeria and Italy. At the event, he reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to education and backed the Global Partnership for Education’s $5bn financing campaign.
Shettima described education as “a critical investment in productivity, human capital and national prosperity.”
During his time in New York, the Vice President also engaged with Nigerians living abroad. He highlighted the role of their investments, expertise and international networks in supporting Nigeria’s development.
The statement added that Shettima held meetings with the new leadership of the Economic Community of West African States Commission as well as the UN Deputy Secretary-General, Amina Mohammed.
The discussions covered a range of issues, including development financing, regional integration, economic cooperation, technology, peace and security.
Shettima’s participation at the General Assembly formed part of Nigeria’s broader diplomatic engagements during the September 22–28 UNGA General Debate.
Source: PUNCH
