United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, has warned that the growing shift towards multipolarity without strong multilateral institutions poses global risks similar to those that led to World War I.
Speaking in New York on Monday during the 80th anniversary session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), Guterres cautioned that the UN’s founding principles face unprecedented threats.
“At this moment, the principles of the United Nations are under assault as never before,” he said, citing ongoing crises in Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, alongside rising global poverty and hunger. He also pointed to worsening climate conditions, describing the planet as burning “with fires, floods and record heat raging through climate chaos.”
Guterres stressed the need to strengthen the UN, highlighting past achievements such as the eradication of smallpox, the healing of the ozone layer, and the prevention of a third world war.
President of the UN General Assembly, Annalena Baerbock, also reflected on the signing of the UN Charter on June 26, 1945, describing it as a commitment “to never again be dragged into hell by the forces of hatred and unchecked ambition.” She urged member states to confront global challenges together.
Meanwhile, Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in New York to represent President Bola Tinubu at the UNGA. He is scheduled to deliver Nigeria’s national statement, participate in high-level debates, and attend several side events between September 22 and 28.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Tuggar, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to multilateralism, global partnerships, and reforms in international financial and security systems. He also restated Nigeria’s demand for Africa’s permanent representation on the UN Security Council, in line with the Ezulwini Consensus and Sirte Declaration.
While in New York, Shettima will unveil Nigeria’s updated Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under the Paris Agreement, attend the Global Champions Roundtable on Adequate and Affordable Housing, and hold bilateral meetings with world leaders. He is also expected to join the African Union Peace and Security Council session and meet with the Prime Minister of Sudan.
On the sidelines, Nigeria will host an Investment Day to showcase opportunities in solid minerals, agriculture, telecommunications, and technology. Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, said the initiative would strengthen Nigeria’s position as an investment destination.
Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Dr Olajumoke Oduwole, added that the event aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda, highlighting the country’s reforms and progress over the last two years.
“The whole idea is to ensure Nigeria’s friends and partners are fully apprised of where we are now, and where we are headed,” she said.