Nigeria renews its push for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council as Shettima leads the country’s engagements at UNGA81.
Nigeria is set to renew its campaign for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council as Vice President Kashim Shettima leads the country’s engagements at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA81) in New York.
The country is also pushing for broader reforms of the United Nations system, stronger development outcomes for developing countries and increased international investment in Nigeria.
Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, briefed VP Shettima on Nigeria’s priorities and strategic engagements for the high-level gathering.
According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Nigeria will build on positions advanced at previous UN engagements, particularly its call for reforms that make multilateral institutions more representative and responsive to developing countries.
Shettima is representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at UNGA81 and is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate. The General Debate runs from September 22 to 28, 2026.
A key priority for Nigeria is its longstanding campaign for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council.
“The Vice-President will, at all the forums, present President Tinubu’s message across different sectors, including Nigeria’s push for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council,” Nkwocha said.
The Security Council has 15 members, including five permanent members — China, France, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States — which hold veto powers. Nigeria has continued to advocate for reforms that would give Africa greater representation in global decision-making.
Shettima has also said Nigeria’s engagements at the gathering will be guided by national interest, commitment to multilateralism and President Tinubu’s call for reforms that reflect contemporary economic and demographic realities.
Beyond UN reform, Nigeria is expected to engage governments, international organisations, businesses and development partners on investment and partnerships covering sectors including solid minerals, energy, infrastructure, agriculture and technology. Governors and other officials in the delegation are also seeking opportunities to attract international investment to their respective states.
Nigeria’s agenda further includes discussions on peace and security, sustainable development, climate action, technology access, global financial architecture and multilateral cooperation.
Shettima’s participation comes after President Tinubu mandated him to lead the Nigerian delegation to the General Assembly. The delegation includes governors, ministers and other senior government officials.
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