Nigeria is set to make its voice heard at the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, but all eyes will be on Vice President Kashim Shettima as he prepares to address the global gathering on Thursday.
According to an updated provisional speakers’ schedule, Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s statement during the afternoon session on September 24, with Nigeria listed as the fourth speaker.
The session is scheduled to begin at 3 p.m. New York time, while Shettima is expected to speak between 4 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.—equivalent to about 9 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Nigerian time.
The appearance will mark Shettima’s third consecutive year representing Nigeria at the UN General Debate.
He previously delivered Nigeria’s statement at the 79th session in 2024 and again at the 80th session in 2025.
The development comes as President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is absent from the General Assembly for the third consecutive year. Tinubu personally addressed the 78th UN General Assembly in September 2023, several months after assuming office.
Nigeria’s position on the speakers’ list had earlier placed the country as the eighth speaker during Wednesday morning’s session before the schedule was subsequently updated.
Shettima will join dozens of world leaders and senior government officials attending the high-level week, including Heads of State, Heads of Government, ministers and vice-presidents.
His Thursday appearance is therefore expected to be closely watched as Nigeria presents its position before the international community at the 81st UN General Assembly.
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