President Bola Ahmed Tinubu misses UNGA again as he will not physically attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York. This will be the third consecutive year he has been absent from the high-level gathering.
The Presidency confirmed that Vice President Kashim Shettima would represent Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation to the General Assembly, which is scheduled to hold from September 22 to 28, 2026.
Tinubu attended the 78th UNGA in 2023 but was represented by Shettima at the 79th session in 2024 and the 80th in 2025. Shettima will again deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level and bilateral meetings during this year’s gathering.
Tinubu Misses UNGA Again
The Presidency said Tinubu made the decision because he is focusing on domestic priorities, particularly the economy and security, alongside other international engagements.
His Senior Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Osodi, also dismissed suggestions that Tinubu was unable to travel to the United States. He said there were no restrictions or problems with American authorities preventing the President from travelling.
“There’s absolutely no impediment,” Osodi said, adding that Tinubu’s absence should not diminish Nigeria’s diplomatic role.
The explanation comes amid public discussion over the President’s repeated absence from the annual diplomatic gathering.
Shettima Arrives in New York
Shettima arrived in New York on Monday. He said Nigeria would base its participation on its national interest and commitment to multilateralism.
He said Nigeria would also push for reforms of global institutions. The reforms would make them more representative and responsive to current economic and demographic realities.
During the General Debate, Shettima plans to outline Nigeria’s position on several issues. These include development, peace and security, economic growth and international cooperation.
He will also hold bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners. Nigeria will maintain a high-level presence at the UNGA despite Tinubu’s absence. Shettima will lead the country’s delegation.
