UNGA: Disaster relief, security, ECOWAS, dominate agenda, as Shettima meets UN Secretary-General
By Kunle Sanni
At the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, Vice President Kashim Shettima held high-level discussions with United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, on key regional and global concerns.
The meeting focused on Nigeria’s role in addressing pressing issues like regional security, humanitarian crises, and international cooperation.
Representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the UNGA, Shettima was welcomed by UN Deputy Secretary-General, Hajiya Amina Mohammed, before proceeding to meet with Guterres. Their talks centered on the urgent need for strengthened disaster relief efforts, particularly in response to the destructive effects of climate change.
In a statement released by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima emphasized Nigeria’s call for coordinated international relief support, especially to mitigate the recent flood damage in Borno State and across other regions affected by climate-related disasters.
The Vice President highlighted the critical need for global assistance in stabilizing the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and implementing sustained relief efforts for Nigeria’s flood victims.
He expressed deep concern over the impact of environmental challenges on the Nigerian populace, stressing that a collaborative, international approach is essential to address these issues effectively.
“We need robust international assistance to tackle these pressing challenges,” Shettima said, calling for urgent action to bolster climate resilience in Nigeria. He reiterated Nigeria’s commitment to regional security, climate action, and global cooperation.
In response, UN Secretary-General Guterres extended his condolences for the recent tragedies in Nigeria, pledging that the UN would ramp up its support to the country.
He commended Nigeria’s leadership, particularly under President Tinubu, noting that Nigeria remains a vital ally in the UN’s mission for peace and stability in Africa.
In a separate meeting, Vice President Shettima met with Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, reaffirming Nigeria’s active role in the Commonwealth. Describing the Commonwealth as a “family gathering that must be protected,” Shettima assured Scotland of Nigeria’s continued commitment to the organization’s goals.
He confirmed Nigeria’s participation in the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa and praised Scotland’s leadership, saying, “Your dedication and success in office are exemplary, and Nigeria remains fully supportive.”
In response, Scotland expressed her gratitude for Nigeria’s backing, acknowledging the country’s pivotal role in her achievements. “Nigeria’s support has been crucial to our success,” she said.
