Tinubu Protected from Arrest During UNGA, Says Ambassador

Ambassador Jimoh Ibrahim, Nigeria's Permanent Representative to the United Nations, confirmed that President Bola Tinubu and his family are fully protected from arrest or restrictions during their visit to the United States for the 81st session of the UN General Assembly, which opens on September 8, 2026. Ibrahim stated that the Nigerian Mission in New York has received no communication from the U.S. government regarding any limitations on the president's movement.

He referenced Section 11 of the 1947 UN-US Agreement, which mandates that U.S. authorities must not impede representatives of member states during official visits. Ibrahim also noted that the UNGA invites member states as institutions rather than individual leaders.

He mentioned a past case where a former official faced restrictions due to drug-related allegations, which were never proven. Ibrahim emphasized that criminal allegations do not equate to guilt and that due process is essential for establishing guilt.