President Bola Tinubu was previously scheduled to deliver Nigeria’s national statement on September 23, but reports indicate Vice President Kashim Shettima may lead the country’s delegation instead.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is reportedly set to miss the 81st Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, United States, despite earlier arrangements for him to attend and deliver Nigeria’s national statement.

Tinubu was listed as the 10th speaker for the morning session of the General Debate, scheduled for September 23, 2026.

However, emerging reports indicate that the President may no longer travel to New York for the high-level gathering, with Vice President Kashim Shettima reportedly expected to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the United Nations.

The reported change comes as Tinubu remains in France, where he is currently on an extended European vacation.

The 81st UN General Assembly General Debate is scheduled to take place from September 22 to 28, 2026, at the United Nations Headquarters in New York.

The annual General Debate brings together world leaders and senior government representatives from member states to address pressing global and national issues.

Nigeria's participation at the session is expected to focus on the country's priorities and its position on major international issues, although the identity of the official who will deliver the national statement has yet to be formally confirmed in the information provided.

If Shettima ultimately leads the Nigerian delegation, his participation would place him at the centre of the country's representation during one of the most significant diplomatic gatherings on the international calendar.

The reported absence of Tinubu would also mark a change from the earlier programme in which the President was listed to speak during the General Debate.

As of the time of this report, there has been no official confirmation from the Presidency in the information provided that Tinubu will not attend the UNGA or that Shettima will replace him as Nigeria's lead representative.