Vice-President Kashim Shettima has called for urgent assistance for victims of the devastating floods that ravaged Maiduguri in Borno.

According to a statement, Mr Shettima made the appeal during an interaction with UN secretary-general António Guterres in New York.

Mr Shettima was welcomed to the UN building by the UN deputy secretary-general, Amina Mohammed.

The Vice-President emphasised the urgent need for relief efforts to address the devastating effects of climate change.

Mr Shettima, who acknowledged the efforts of the UN, called for increased support in stabilising the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) region.

He also stressed the need to implement enduring, coordinated relief plans for flood victims across Nigeria.

Mr Shettima regretted the devastating effects of floods and other climate-related challenges Nigerians are faced, stressing that enhanced coordinated relief plans were vital.

The vice-president also demanded more robust international assistance in tackling the challenges.

He highlighted the urgent need for action to mitigate the impacts of climate change and environmental threats on Nigerian citizens.

Mr Shettima assured the UN scribe of Nigeria’s commitment to regional stability, climate resilience and international cooperation and leadership.

Mr Guterres expressed his condolences on the recent losses in Nigeria, pledging increased support from the global body. He said that the UN stands ready to enhance its interventions and support for Nigeria.

He commended President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, stating that Nigeria is an indispensable ally in the UN’s bid for a peaceful Africa.

In a separate meeting, Mr Shettima engaged with Commonwealth secretary-general Patricia Scotland, describing the Commonwealth as a “family gathering that must be guarded jealously.”

Mr Shettima assured Scotland of Nigeria’s continued support and participation, stating, “Nigeria will play its equitable role in the Commonwealth’s draft declaration.”

He confirmed Nigeria’s attendance at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa.

He praised Scotland’s leadership.

“We are proud of your dedication and success so far in office. You are a trailblazer and hence deserve all the support we can render to you.”

(NAN)