Vice President Kashim Shettima says Nigeria’s engagements at the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly, UNGA, will be guided by the country’s national interest.

Shettima spoke shortly after arriving in New York, United States, to represent President Bola Tinubu at the ongoing UNGA session.

The Vice President arrived alongside Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, Minister of State for Budget and Economic Planning, Doris Uzoka-Anite, and other senior government officials.

Shettima reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism and President Tinubu’s advocacy for reforms of global institutions to reflect current economic and demographic realities.

“Our message in New York is clear: Nigeria believes in multilateralism, but the institutions that govern our world must become more representative, equitable, and responsive to the realities of today,” he said.

He added that Nigeria would engage its international partners from the standpoint of its national interest while advancing calls for greater representation and opportunities for developing countries.

“We will engage our partners firmly from the standpoint of Nigeria’s national interest while advancing Tinubu’s call for a global system that gives developing countries a stronger voice and a fairer opportunity to prosper,” Shettima said.

The Vice President was received on arrival in New York by Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu; Deputy Chief of Staff to the President, Ibrahim Hadejia; and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, among other government and diplomatic officials.

Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement during the general debate, outlining the country’s position on major international issues and priorities.

He is also expected to participate in high-level meetings and hold bilateral engagements with world leaders, international organisations and development partners on the sidelines of the gathering.

Nigeria is expected to use the engagements to advance its positions on reform of the international financial architecture and sustainable development.