President Bola Tinubu will not attend the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 79) session in New York, scheduled for September 24 to September 28, 2024. This decision was announced in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Instead, Vice President Kashim Shettima will lead Nigeria's delegation.
Tinubu's absence is attributed to his focus on pressing domestic issues, particularly in light of the recent devastating flooding in Borno State. The President returned to Nigeria last Sunday after trips to China and the United Kingdom.
At UNGA 79, Vice President Shettima is expected to deliver Nigeria's national statement, participate in key sideline events, and engage in bilateral meetings with other leaders. The theme for this year's General Debate is "Leaving No One Behind: Acting Together for the Advancement of Peace, Sustainable Development, and Human Dignity for Present and Future Generations."
Maiduguri, Borno State, is experiencing severe flooding, the worst since 1994, with rising waters submerging homes and prompting evacuation calls from local authorities. The flooding is attributed to the overflow of the Alau Dam, which has been at full capacity for the past week.
State officials are working closely with federal agencies and NGOs to streamline relief efforts and are appealing for support from community leaders and businesses to assist those affected.
Additionally, the federal government is proposing the construction of five buffer dams along the Rivers Niger and Benue to mitigate future flooding caused by water releases from the Lagdo Dam in Cameroon.
The Nigeria Hydrological Services Agency has indicated that recent flooding is exacerbated by climate change and has urged residents living near flood plains to relocate for safety. The federal government has announced a N3 billion support package for affected states nationwide as part of its response to the ongoing crisis.