Presidency says Nigeria will be “fully and effectively represented” in New York
The Federal Government has clarified Nigeria’s representation at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York, following public commentary over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s absence.
In a statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the government said the President has mandated Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him and lead Nigeria’s delegation.
According to the statement, Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement and take part in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners.
“Vice President Shettima carries the full mandate of the President and the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement said. It added that his engagements will advance Nigeria’s priorities on peace and security, economic development, climate action, reform of the global financial architecture, sustainable development and international cooperation.
Idris noted that President Tinubu is currently on annual leave, and described the decision to send the Vice President as neither unusual nor a diminution of Nigeria’s diplomatic standing.
Response to Atiku
The government said it had taken note of commentary by former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and a United States-based lobbying firm retained by him, which questioned the President’s non-attendance and, it said, sought to attach “false and baseless” motives to it.
“Political opposition and robust public debate are legitimate features of democracy,” the statement said. “However, speculation should not be presented to Nigerians or the international community as established facts.”
It urged political actors to act responsibly when discussing matters affecting Nigeria’s international relationships and national reputation.
Ties with Washington
The government also reaffirmed the value of Nigeria’s long-standing relationship with the United States, which it said spans trade and investment, security cooperation, energy, democratic institutions, regional stability and extensive people-to-people ties.
It stressed that the relationship is conducted through established diplomatic and governmental channels and should not be confused with partisan commentary or the activities of private lobbyists acting for political clients.
The Federal Government encouraged Nigerians and the media to distinguish between verified information, legitimate political opinion and unsubstantiated speculation.
“Nigeria will be fully represented in New York,” the statement concluded. “Nigeria’s interests will be vigorously advanced. And the work of strengthening the country’s relationships with its international partners will continue.”
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