Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded an explanation from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over his repeated absence from the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
Reacting on Sunday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Mr Phrank Shaibu, Atiku noted that Tinubu did not attend the 79th session in 2024, the 80th in 2025 and the 81st in 2026, and was represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima on each occasion.
The presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) said three consecutive absences required a clear explanation from the Presidency.
“The United Nations General Assembly is one of the world’s most important diplomatic gatherings. It brings together the representatives of the UN’s 193 member states and provides a unique platform for presidents and prime ministers to defend their countries’ interests, negotiate partnerships and shape global decisions on trade, security and development,” Atiku said.
He said while the Vice President may represent Nigeria, personal presence of the President carries authority and visibility that delegation cannot fully replace.
Atiku said UNGA sidelines provide opportunities for bilateral meetings, investment drives, trade partnerships and development finance negotiations, adding that presidential absence could have implications for investment and economic opportunities.
He referenced a reported statement by Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations on securing a seat for the President at the General Assembly, and questioned why the seat was not utilised.
He also questioned the rationale for committing up to $9 million to American lobbyists to improve Nigeria’s standing in the United States while the President did not attend the UNGA in New York.
“What exactly did Nigerians purchase with that money? Why spend millions of dollars lobbying Washington while staying away from New York?” Atiku asked.
Atiku asked the Presidency to state whether there is any impediment to the President’s travel to the United States and to disclose the real reason for the third consecutive absence.
“If there is no impediment, the Presidency must explain this serial absenteeism. If an impediment exists, Nigerians have a right to know,” he said.
“Nigeria is bigger than any individual. Our diplomatic influence, economic interests and international reputation must be protected.”