Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule has defended Nigeria’s representation at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, saying President Bola Tinubu is not the only world leader who did not personally attend the gathering in New York.
Sule made the remarks during a virtual interview on TVC, noting that several countries had also sent vice presidents, foreign ministers or other senior officials to represent their governments at the high-level session.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is representing Tinubu and leading Nigeria’s delegation at the UNGA. He is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the General Debate.
Sule said the important issue was Nigeria’s participation in the diplomatic activities of the General Assembly rather than whether the President was physically present.
He said Shettima had received numerous requests for bilateral meetings with heads of government, prime ministers, foreign ministers and other senior officials, adding that the engagements demonstrated Nigeria’s continued participation in the global gathering.
The governor also said he was not in a position to speak for Tinubu on the reason for his absence but maintained that the President would have “very good reason” for not attending.
Sule further argued that Nigeria’s diplomatic priorities, including its push for reform of the UN Security Council and a permanent African seat, could be pursued through bilateral meetings, the African Union, ECOWAS and other international engagements.
He said such negotiations were not limited to the main UNGA sessions, noting that several discussions would take place through side meetings and engagements beyond New York.
Meanwhile, Shettima attended the opening of the UNGA General Debate on Tuesday alongside other members of Nigeria’s delegation. The session is focused on issues including international cooperation, peace and security, development and reform of global institutions.
Sule, who is also attending the UNGA, said his engagements were focused partly on attracting investment to Nasarawa State, particularly in the critical minerals sector. He highlighted the state’s lithium processing plant as an area of interest in discussions with potential investors and partners.
