Nigeria’s Vice President, Kashim Shettima, has arrived in New York to participate in the 79th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The session, held annually at the UN headquarters, is a key platform for countries to discuss matters such as peace, security, and sustainable development.
Shettima touched down at John F. Kennedy International Airport early Monday morning. He was welcomed by an official delegation, including prominent members of the Nigerian government.
Among those present to receive him were the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, and the Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.
Also in attendance were Kashifu Inuwa, the Director-General of the National Information Technology Development Agency (NITDA), as well as Nigerian diplomats and United Nations officials.
Stanley Nkwocha, the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, confirmed Shettima’s arrival in a statement issued on Monday.
During his stay in New York, Vice President Shettima is set to lead Nigeria’s delegation at the UNGA, representing the country on the global stage. Following instructions from President Bola Tinubu, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s official statement and participate in high-level discussions with other world leaders.
These discussions are expected to cover a wide range of issues, including climate change, poverty, inequality, and global health crises, all of which are pressing concerns in today’s world.
One of the main highlights of this year’s assembly is the “Summit of the Future.” This summit is aimed at accelerating global progress toward achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and will emphasize the importance of strengthening international cooperation.
It will focus on addressing gaps in global governance, which have been exposed by recent global challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing conflicts in different parts of the world.
In addition to attending the summit, Vice President Shettima will engage with other heads of state and government in a series of meetings. These talks are expected to result in the adoption of the “Pact for the Future,” a comprehensive action plan aimed at reinforcing international cooperation and adapting to the evolving challenges of today and the future.
The UNGA’s 79th session will run from September 23 to 27, and during this time, the SDG Media Zone will host interviews and discussions on critical global issues.