Tinubu at UNGA: Does Nigeria’s President Have to Attend in Person?

President Bola Tinubu’s decision to send Vice-President Kashim Shettima to the 81st UN General Assembly has sparked debate. Some Nigerians see the President’s absence as a diplomatic setback, while others argue that a properly mandated senior official can represent the country effectively. I argue that the UN does not require every president or prime minister to attend the General Assembly personally each year. Member states may be represented by authorised delegations led by vice-presidents, prime ministers, foreign ministers or senior diplomats. Historically, many countries, including major global powers, have used this approach. Nigeria is therefore not absent from UNGA because the President is not in New York. The more important question is whether Nigeria’s delegation can secure useful diplomatic, trade, investment and security outcomes for the country. Presidential attendance still carries symbolic and strategic value, especially for a country with Nigeria’s regional influence. However, Nigerians should judge participation by measurable results, not only by whether the President personally attended.

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