Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Wednesday delivered Nigeria’s national statement at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York.

In his address, Shettima reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to peace, development, and human rights, stressing the urgent need for institutional reforms within the UN system.

He outlined four key priorities for Nigeria:

Permanent Membership at the Security Council – Shettima argued that Nigeria’s population, regional role, and contributions to peacekeeping make it deserving of a permanent seat, describing it as a matter of fairness and representation.

Debt Relief and Economic Reform – He called for urgent mechanisms to address sovereign debt and support trade and investment, emphasizing that debt relief should be seen as a path to prosperity rather than charity.

Equitable Benefits from Strategic Minerals – Shettima insisted that nations rich in natural resources, particularly in Africa, must derive fair value through investment, local processing, and job creation, instead of being confined to raw material exports.

Closing the Digital Divide – He urged global cooperation to ensure developing countries benefit from emerging technologies, stressing that artificial intelligence should stand for “Africa Included.”

Addressing global security and peace, Shettima highlighted Nigeria’s long-standing role in UN peacekeeping missions and its fight against terrorism. He reiterated support for a two-state solution in Palestine, describing it as the most dignified path to lasting peace.

On climate change, he said Nigeria is committed to working with the UN to channel climate funds into education, housing, and technology, stressing that the issue goes beyond the environment to touch national and global security.

Shettima concluded by reaffirming Nigeria’s dedication to multilateralism, noting that the survival of one nation is tied to the survival of others, and urging bold reforms to strengthen global cooperation.