RismadarVoice Reporters
September 2026
The Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has asked President Bola Tinubu to explain his decision to miss the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for the third consecutive year.
Mr Atiku made the demand in a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Phrank Shaibu.
The former vice president’s reaction followed the Presidency’s announcement that Vice President Kashim Shettima would lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UNGA in New York. The General Debate is scheduled to be held from 22 to 28 September.
Mr Tinubu attended the 78th UNGA in 2023 but did not personally attend the 79th and 80th sessions in 2024 and 2025, with Mr Shettima representing Nigeria on those occasions. The latest decision means the president will again be represented by his vice at the annual gathering.
Mr Atiku questioned whether Mr Tinubu’s reported history with United States law-enforcement authorities had any bearing on his repeated absence from the New York meeting.
He said the pattern required an explanation from the Presidency, arguing that UNGA provides an opportunity for world leaders to hold bilateral meetings, attract investment, negotiate trade agreements and discuss issues of international cooperation.
According to Mr Atiku, having the vice president represent Nigeria does not provide the same level of direct presidential engagement at the gathering.
He also argued that repeated presidential absence could have diplomatic and economic implications for Nigeria.
“The United Nations General Assembly is one of the world’s most important diplomatic gatherings,” Mr Atiku said, adding that the meeting provides leaders with an opportunity to defend their countries’ interests and engage other governments on trade, security and development.
He further questioned whether there was any impediment preventing Mr Tinubu from travelling to the United States.
“If there is no impediment, the Presidency must explain this serial absenteeism. If an impediment exists, Nigerians have a right to know,” he said.
The Presidency has not indicated that the president’s absence is linked to any legal or diplomatic restriction in the United States.
Instead, it said Mr Shettima’s participation would ensure Nigeria maintains a strong presence at the General Assembly.
According to the Presidency, Mr Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in high-level meetings on issues including development, climate action and other matters affecting Nigeria and Africa. He is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with foreign leaders, international organisations and development partners.
