RismadarVoice Reporters
September 27, 2026
Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed New York for Abuja after concluding his engagements at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly.
Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu and led Nigeria’s delegation to the global gathering, left New York on Sunday following a series of engagements during the UNGA.
His departure was confirmed by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communications, Stanley Nkwocha.
President Tinubu had directed Shettima to represent him at the 81st UNGA, where the Vice President delivered Nigeria’s national statement and participated in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements.
Nigeria used the gathering to present its positions on international peace and security, sustainable development, climate finance, economic cooperation and reforms of global institutions.
During Nigeria’s engagement at the UN, Shettima renewed the country’s call for reforms to the international system, including stronger representation for Africa in global decision-making.
The Tinubu administration has repeatedly argued that existing international institutions should better reflect contemporary demographic and economic realities, with Africa given greater representation in institutions including the United Nations Security Council.
Shettima also held engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners as Nigeria sought to advance its diplomatic and economic interests.
His return comes as attention remains on President Tinubu’s extended stay in Europe.
The Presidency announced on September 21 that Tinubu had extended his working vacation by a few days. He initially departed Nigeria on August 30 for London before travelling to Paris, where he held meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and businessman Vincent Bolloré.
The Presidency said Tinubu remained in communication with officials in Nigeria and continued to issue directives on national matters during the period.
Meanwhile, Paul Ibe, media adviser to African Democratic Congress presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, has questioned the President’s prolonged absence and raised concerns about the constitutional arrangements for exercising presidential functions while Tinubu and Shettima were outside Nigeria.
The Presidency has maintained that Tinubu continued directing affairs of state while abroad and that Shettima and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, represented him at designated official engagements.
Shettima’s departure from New York brings his participation in this year’s UN General Assembly to a close as he returns to Abuja to resume official duties.
