President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is set to return to the global stage at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York this September, marking his first appearance at the annual gathering in two years. The President is expected to present Nigeria’s economic reform agenda and participate in high-level discussions on security, energy, healthcare and regional cooperation.
After missing the last two editions of the United Nations General Assembly, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is preparing to represent Nigeria in person at one of the world’s most important diplomatic gatherings.
Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, confirmed that Tinubu has accepted an invitation to attend the 81st UN General Assembly in New York this September, where he will deliver Nigeria’s national statement before world leaders.
Tinubu’s attendance will end a two-year absence from the annual summit.
In 2024 and 2025, the President delegated Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation, citing domestic priorities during one session and maintaining continuity through the vice president during another. His decision to attend this year’s meeting signals a renewed emphasis on direct presidential engagement with the international community.
According to Ambassador Ibrahim, Tinubu intends to use his address to highlight the economic reforms implemented by his administration and outline Nigeria’s development priorities before the international community.
The envoy said the President’s speech has been scheduled for a morning session in New York, allowing Nigerians to follow it live. Beyond the formal address, Tinubu is also expected to participate in a number of side events focused on energy, healthcare and education.
Apart from economic issues, discussions are also expected to focus on West Africa’s growing security challenges.
Ambassador Ibrahim disclosed that Tinubu remains committed to strengthening regional border policing through greater collaboration with the United Nations, particularly in addressing insecurity linked to porous borders across West Africa. According to him, Nigeria hopes to advance discussions on coordinated regional security initiatives during the UN gathering.
The UN General Assembly traditionally brings together presidents, prime ministers and diplomats from nearly every country, creating opportunities for bilateral meetings alongside the official programme.
Although no formal meeting has been announced, Tinubu is expected to hold discussions with several world leaders and international organisations on issues ranging from investment and climate financing to peacekeeping and regional stability.
Tinubu’s return to the UN General Assembly comes at a time when Nigeria is seeking stronger international partnerships to support economic recovery, attract investment and confront regional security threats. His participation is expected to place Nigeria back at the centre of key global conversations while providing another opportunity to present the administration’s policy direction before the international community.