Presidency Says Tinubu Faces No U.S. Travel Restriction Over UNGA Absence

The Presidency says President Bola Tinubu did not stay away from the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York because of any legal or immigration restriction in the United States.

Senior Special Assistant to the President on Foreign Affairs and Protocol, Ademola Oshodi, said there was “absolutely no impediment” to Tinubu travelling to the United States, describing suggestions otherwise as political claims.

Oshodi spoke on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics programme, following public debate over Tinubu’s decision to delegate Vice President Kashim Shettima to lead Nigeria’s delegation to the General Assembly for the third consecutive year.

He said Tinubu had travelled to the United States since becoming president, including attending the 78th UN General Assembly in New York in 2023. He also cited the president’s visit to Los Angeles in August 2025.

Oshodi said the president’s decision not to personally attend the UNGA should not be interpreted as a setback for Nigeria’s diplomacy, arguing that diplomatic engagement also depends on institutions, continuity, representation and the outcomes of international engagements.

Shettima arrived in New York on Monday to represent Tinubu and lead Nigeria’s delegation. He is expected to deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in bilateral and multilateral engagements during the high-level week.

Oshodi said Shettima carries the president’s mandate and would be supported by Foreign Affairs Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Jimoh Ibrahim, and other senior government officials.

He said Nigeria’s priorities at the General Assembly include insecurity in the Sahel, the government’s economic reforms, reform of the global financial architecture, climate action and stronger African representation in international institutions.

The presidential aide said the issues being pursued at the UN have implications for security cooperation, investment, climate financing, employment, government revenue and the protection of Nigerians.

He also said Nigeria’s foreign policy engagements extend beyond the annual UN General Assembly through platforms including the Economic Community of West African States, African Union, BRICS and bilateral relationships.

The 81st UN General Assembly high-level general debate is scheduled for Sept. 22 to 28 under the theme, “Restoring trust, managing transformation: A United Nations that delivers for all.”