Nigeria will address the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on Thursday, September 24, with Vice-President Kashim Shettima scheduled to deliver the country’s national statement.

According to the updated provisional speakers’ schedule, Nigeria is the fourth speaker in the afternoon session, with Shettima expected to speak between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM New York time, equivalent to 9:00 PM–9:30 PM Nigerian time.
Shettima is representing President Bola Tinubu, who mandated him to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the 81st UNGA in New York. This will be the third consecutive year that Shettima represents Tinubu at the General Debate, after doing so in 2024 and 2025.
The Vice-President is expected to outline Nigeria’s position on major international issues, including peace and security, economic growth, sustainable development, climate finance, and reform of the global financial system. He will also participate in high-level meetings and bilateral engagements with foreign leaders and development partners.
The 81st UN General Debate runs from September 22 to 28, 2026, under the theme: “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”





