Vice President Kashim Shettima addressed the 81st UNGA on Thursday, presenting Nigeria’s national statement on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. Speaking in New York, Shettima represented Tinubu during the General Debate and outlined Nigeria’s positions on global challenges facing nations.
His address emphasized Nigeria’s support for multilateralism, diplomacy, international law, and stronger cooperation among countries confronting conflicts and shared challenges. Shettima called for reform of the United Nations Security Council, arguing that its structure should better reflect today’s global realities.
Nigeria specifically demanded at least two permanent African seats, including veto rights for as long as that power exists today. The Vice President also requested five non-permanent African seats, aligning Nigeria’s position with the Ezulwini Consensus and related continental commitments.
Beyond institutional reform, Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to peace efforts across Africa, including operations and initiatives in conflict-affected regions worldwide. He referenced Nigeria’s involvement in Liberia, Sierra Leone, Darfur, Mali, and The Gambia while emphasizing continued regional security cooperation efforts.
Meanwhile, the address urged stronger international action against terrorism, organised crime, cyberattacks, illicit finance, and cross-border security threats globally today. On climate change, Shettima rejected a choice between development and environmental action, calling for technology transfers, capacity building, and financing.
Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to net-zero emissions by 2060 while pursuing renewable energy, cleaner cooking, gas, and climate-smart agriculture initiatives. Regarding technology, Shettima said artificial intelligence could support healthcare, agriculture, governance, productivity, and other areas through responsible deployment worldwide today.
He also called for reforms to international financial institutions, wider concessional financing, and debt frameworks that recognise developing countries’ needs. Shettima highlighted the African Continental Free Trade Area as an opportunity to expand trade, industrialisation, regional value chains, and investment.
The Vice President further urged Africa to move beyond raw material exports toward manufacturing, technological innovation, and knowledge-driven economic growth. On global conflicts, Nigeria advocated diplomacy, civilian protection, humanitarian access, and negotiated settlements consistent with international law and national sovereignty.
Shettima’s UNGA 81 address presented Nigeria’s priorities on institutional reform, development, climate action, technology, security, and international cooperation across Africa. The address reinforced Nigeria’s intention to pursue greater African representation while supporting a more inclusive and effective United Nations system.
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