Nigeria’s push for a greater African voice in global affairs featured prominently in Vice President Kashim Shettima’s engagements during his recent diplomatic mission to New York.
Shettima, who has now returned to Nigeria, used the 81st session of the United Nations General Assembly to present the country’s position on reform of the UN Security Council, including a demand for permanent African representation.
Beyond the General Assembly, the Vice President held discussions with United Nations Deputy Secretary-General Amina J. Mohammed and the new leadership of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Commission on issues affecting Nigeria, Africa and regional cooperation.
His engagements also touched on Africa’s natural resources, with discussions focusing on the need to increase local processing, manufacturing and value addition rather than depending predominantly on exports of raw minerals.
Shettima further participated in a Nigeria-Italy high-level education financing event, where he reaffirmed Nigeria’s focus on education and supported the Global Partnership for Education’s $5 billion financing campaign.
The Vice President also interacted with Nigerians in the diaspora, highlighting the potential of their investments, expertise and international networks to contribute to national development.
Shettima departed Abuja on September 20 to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the UNGA, which took place in New York from September 22 to 28, according to Channels Television.
