Jimoh Ibrahim Defends Tinubu's Absence at UNGA

Jimoh Ibrahim, Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, asserted that he fulfilled his promise to secure Nigeria a prominent position at the 81st United Nations General Assembly, despite President Bola Tinubu's absence. Ibrahim had previously stated that he arranged for Nigeria to sit close to U.S.

President Donald Trump. However, Vice President Kashim Shettima led Nigeria's delegation in New York.

During an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ibrahim defended the decision for Tinubu not to attend, noting that over 60% of speakers were represented by vice presidents or foreign ministers. He argued that it was unnecessary for Tinubu to leave pressing national issues for a brief speech when senior officials were adequately representing Nigeria.

Ibrahim highlighted that other world leaders, including those from South Africa, China, and Russia, were also absent. He insisted that Nigeria's seating at number six in the front row was a significant achievement.