Tinubu skips UNGA, Shettima leads Nigeria's delegation

President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 81st United Nations General Assembly in person, with Vice President Kashim Shettima departing for New York on Sunday to lead Nigeria's delegation. The confirmation, announced by the Vice President's office, ends weeks of speculation about the president's attendance at the global event scheduled for September 22 to 28, 2026. Shettima left Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport in Abuja on September 20, 2026, and will head a high-level delegation that includes Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara, Zamfara State Governor Dauda Lawal, ministers, and other senior government officials. The 81st UNGA General Debate will take place under the theme "Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all." At the General Debate, Shettima will deliver Nigeria's national statement, outlining the country's position and priorities on major global issues with implications for national development, peace and security, economic growth, and international cooperation.