By Aisha Muhammad Magaji
Nigeria at the UN’s Historic Gathering
Vice President Kashim Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The landmark assembly, which doubles as the UN’s 80th anniversary, runs from September 22 to 28, 2025, bringing together world leaders to deliberate on peace, climate, global finance, and sustainable development.
President Tinubu, who remained in Abuja to attend to domestic commitments, directed Shettima to present Nigeria’s position at the global forum.
Tinubu’s Message to the World
In his national statement delivered by Shettima, Tinubu commended the United Nations for its 80 years of efforts in fostering global peace, protecting human dignity, and advancing sustainable development. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to multilateral cooperation and called for deeper reforms in global governance, stressing that Africa must have a stronger voice in shaping international decisions.
Key points in Tinubu’s message included:
- A renewed pledge to uphold democracy, peace, and regional stability.
- Advocacy for reforms in global finance and taxation systems to ensure fairer opportunities for developing nations.
- Nigeria’s readiness to partner on climate action, education, and food security.
Nigeria’s Agenda at UNGA 2025
Beyond the anniversary session, Nigeria has laid out a series of engagements:
- National Statement: Scheduled for delivery on September 24, Shettima will formally outline Nigeria’s global vision, covering security, trade, technology, and climate resilience.
- Climate Action: Nigeria is set to unveil updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement during a special climate event convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres.
- Housing and Development: Shettima is expected to join a high-level roundtable on affordable housing, pressing for sustainable urban development solutions for Africa.
- Bilateral Engagements: Meetings with global leaders, investors, and development partners are planned to attract investments in solid minerals, agriculture, and infrastructure.
Nigeria’s Delegation
Supporting the Vice President is a strong team of senior officials, including:
- Foreign Affairs Minister Yusuf Tuggar
- Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani
- Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake
- Minister of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa
- Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim
The delegation is tasked with driving Nigeria’s agenda across trade, finance, and diplomacy.
Implications for Nigeria
Observers say Nigeria’s visibility at UNGA 2025 is crucial for several reasons:
- Climate Commitments: The unveiling of new NDCs will show how ambitious Nigeria intends to be in reducing emissions while expanding energy access for its fast-growing population.
- Global Finance Reform: By pushing for fairer financial systems, Nigeria aligns with other developing nations seeking relief from debt burdens and greater access to development financing.
- UN Reform Advocacy: Nigeria continues to campaign for permanent African seats on the UN Security Council, reflecting the continent’s growing influence.
- Economic Diplomacy: Side events provide opportunities to pitch Nigeria as a viable investment destination, particularly in housing, infrastructure, and the green economy.
Domestic Reactions
Back home, civil society groups and analysts have welcomed Nigeria’s active participation. The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) praised the government for championing multilateralism, but urged authorities to ensure commitments made abroad translate into domestic policy reforms.
Political analysts also note that Shettima’s presence at UNGA underscores Tinubu’s trust in his deputy’s ability to engage world leaders. It marks one of Shettima’s most prominent outings on the international stage since assuming office in May 2023.
Looking Ahead
As the UN enters its ninth decade, Nigeria’s message reflects both continuity and urgency: a call for justice in global systems, meaningful climate action, and a more inclusive United Nations. For Shettima and the Nigerian delegation, the task is to ensure that the country’s voice resonates beyond New York and delivers concrete results at home.
