Tinubu cancels 79th UN general assembly to address domestic crisis

President Bola Tinubu has opted to forgo the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York to concentrate on urgent domestic issues, notably the severe flooding that has impacted Nigeria recently.

In a statement released on Thursday, Bayo Onanuga, the President’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, confirmed Tinubu’s decision. Vice President Kashim Shettima will head Nigeria’s delegation in Tinubu’s absence.

This decision highlights Tinubu’s focus on addressing critical national concerns rather than participating in international discussions.

The UNGA, set to occur from September 24 to 28, 2024, will address topics such as sustainable development, peace, and human dignity.

Vice President Shettima is tasked with presenting Nigeria’s national statement at the assembly, attending important side events, and engaging in bilateral meetings to represent the country’s interests globally.

The statement read: “President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly session in New York this year.

“The President has thus directed Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation.

“President Tinubu, who returned to the country last Sunday after his trip to China and the United Kingdom, wants to focus on domestic issues and address some of the country’s challenges, especially after the recent devastating flooding.

“At UNGA 79, Vice President Shettima will deliver Nigeria’s national statement to the General Assembly, attend important sideline events, and hold bilateral meetings.

“The high-level General Debate, with the theme ‘Leaving no one behind: Acting together for the advancement of peace, sustainable development and human dignity for present and future generations’, will run from Tuesday, September 24, through Saturday, September 28, 2024.”