Nigeria pressed for Security Council reform, debt relief, and a stronger role for Africa in global trade and minerals.
Nigeria used the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) to press for reforms and assert Africa’s place in global decision-making. President Bola Tinubu’s message, delivered by Vice President Kashim Shettima, called for a permanent Security Council seat for Africa, debt forgiveness, equitable access to trade and finance, and climate justice.
“We are here to strengthen the prospect for peace, development, and human rights,” Shettima said, outlining Nigeria’s push to close the digital divide and ensure host nations benefit from their mineral wealth.
On the sidelines, Shettima met UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres, engaged investors in agriculture, solid minerals, and technology, and addressed Nigerians in the U.S. Ministers Jumoke Oduwole and Dele Alake also showcased Nigeria’s investment climate and critical minerals strategy.
Applause on the Assembly floor and strong reception at side events underlined Nigeria’s influence. Officials said what mattered most was the message, not the president’s physical presence.