UNGA absence: Nigeria can’t pay for Tinubu’s US baggage – Atiku
Atiku Abubakar, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), is urging President Bola Tinubu to provide a comprehensive explanation regarding his repeated absences from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
In a statement released on Sunday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku expressed concerns over whether Tinubu’s documented interactions with U.S. law enforcement agencies have negatively impacted Nigeria’s foreign relations.
Atiku pointed out that Tinubu has missed the 79th UNGA session in 2024, the 80th in 2025, and the upcoming 81st in 2026, delegating Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him on each occasion. He remarked that these three consecutive absences constitute a troubling pattern that warrants clarification.
“The United Nations General Assembly is one of the world’s most significant diplomatic events, offering representatives from 193 member states an opportunity to advocate for their nations, forge partnerships, and influence global policies on various issues,” Atiku noted.
While acknowledging Shettima’s capabilities in representing Nigeria, Atiku asserted that delegating such responsibilities cannot replace the personal involvement and authority of the President. He emphasized that Tinubu’s consistent absence from such a crucial international platform undermines Nigeria’s diplomatic standing.
“UNGA is not just a ceremonial occasion; it is where leaders engage in key bilateral discussions, attract investors, negotiate trade agreements, and secure development funding,” he said.
Atiku cautioned that a continuous absence from this forum could lead to significant economic repercussions for Nigeria. He underscored that a lack of engagement on the international stage might deter foreign investment, ultimately affecting ordinary citizens through increased economic hardships, such as job losses and rising costs of living.
“The economic and diplomatic ramifications of the President’s absence are being felt by Nigerians,” Atiku concluded. “While Tinubu may view attending UNGA as a matter of personal choice, the repercussions impact the nation as a whole.”
