UNGA: Anyim Says Tinubu’s Absence Should Not Be a Concern

Former Senate President Pius Anyim Pius has defended President Bola Tinubu’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York, saying Nigerians are aware that the President is currently on leave. Speaking on Arise News’ Prime Time, Anyim said there was nothing unusual about Tinubu delegating Vice-President Kashim Shettima to represent Nigeria at the gathering. The Presidency has said Tinubu is on a working vacation, while Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation to the UNGA and is expected to deliver the country’s national statement and participate in high-level engagements. Anyim argued that the General Assembly is only one part of the UNGA programme, which also includes bilateral and multilateral meetings, adding that the Vice-President could deliver Nigeria’s statement in the President’s absence.

Anyim also played down concerns that Tinubu’s absence could prevent an opportunity for a meeting with United States President Donald Trump, saying engagements between world leaders are normally arranged in advance and are not dependent on seating arrangements at the General Assembly. He said the President’s physical presence would be more significant if he had specific bilateral or multilateral meetings requiring his attendance. Anyim further noted that other heads of government also do not attend the UNGA in person. The Federal Government has similarly maintained that Nigeria is fully represented, with the Information Minister, Mohammed Idris, saying Shettima is attending with the full mandate of the President and will engage on issues including peace and security, economic development, climate action and international cooperation.

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