UN Assembly: VP Shettima Begs World Leaders to Relieve Nigeria’s Crushing Debt

Nigerian Vice President Kashim Shettima Urges Global Leaders to Prioritize Debt Forgiveness.

Nigeria’s Vice President Kashim Shettima has made a passionate plea to world leaders gathered at the 79th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in New York, calling for debt forgiveness for Nigeria and other developing nations.

Representing President Bola Tinubu, Shettima emphasized that crippling debt is hindering economic development in the Global South, undermining nations’ ability to meet their citizens’ needs.

Shettima’s appeal comes as Nigeria and other developing countries struggle with unsustainable debt burdens, stifling their economic progress. “Countries of the global South cannot make meaningful economic progress without special concessions and a review of their current debt burden,” he stated.

The Vice President also highlighted the need for multilateralism, urging the United Nations to foster inclusivity, equality, and cooperation among member states. He warned that singularity and nationalism are threatening global cooperation, undermining collective efforts to address pressing challenges such as terrorism, climate change, poverty, and inequality.

Additionally, Shettima called for:

– Recovery of Stolen Assets: Return of proceeds of corruption and illicit financial flows to countries of origin, as mandated by the United Nations Convention against Corruption.
– Trade Reforms: Elimination of trade barriers, protectionist policies, and fierce competition that hinder global investments.
– Climate Action: Implementation of commitments made at COP meetings to address climate change, which poses a significant threat to sustainable development.

Shettima’s address underscored the urgent need for global cooperation to address the myriad challenges facing developing nations. By prioritizing debt forgiveness and multilateralism, the international community can help create a more equitable and sustainable future for all.