Vice-President Kashim Shettima arrived in New York to attend the 80th week-long session of the United Nations General Assembly.

The assembly, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, is expected to conclude on September 28.

Upon arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, Shettima was received by the foreign affairs minister, Yusuf Tuggar, the defence minister, Badaru Abubakar, and the charge d’affaires at the permanent mission of Nigeria to the United Nations, Samson Itegboje.

Also on the ground to welcome the vice-president were the science and tech minister, Uche Nnaji, the Nigerian defence attaché in New York, Edward Koleoso, the defence attaché in Washington, Sani Kalgo, among others.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Mr Shettima is set to deliver Nigeria’s national statement at the global event, participate in the UN high-level general debates, and attend various side events.

While in New York, the vice-president will announce Nigeria’s new Nationally Determined Contributions under the Paris Agreement. He will also attend the high-level roundtable of the Global Champions on Adequate and Affordable Housing, present Nigeria’s national statement, and engage in several bilateral meetings and other engagements.

Speaking on Nigeria’s target for this year’s UNGA, Mr Tuggar said Nigeria is championing the United Nations Global Convention on Taxation, which is very central to the ongoing push to reform the global financial architecture.

Mr Tuggar noted that Africa is the only continent or grouping that has a common position on what should be done regarding reforming the UN Security Council. The minister insisted that Africa should have a minimum of two permanent seats based on what it refers to as the Ezulwini Consensus and the Sirte Declaration.

Additionally, Governor Uba Sani stated that Nigeria’s participation in the 80th UNGA will undoubtedly further position the country as an investment destination and one of the leading economies in Africa.

For her part, the trade and investment minister, Olajumoke Oduwole, said Nigeria would push for its position in promoting and enforcing Sustainable Development and marrying it to the nation’s goal.

(NAN)