by Alexander O. Onukwue
President Muhammadu Buhari is now in New York, attending the United Nations General Assembly.
According to a state house statement signed by the President’s special adviser on media and publicity, Femi Adesina, “the high point of the President’s visit will be his participation in the General Debate during which he will deliver the country’s National Statement”.
The 72nd UNGA has as its theme, “Focusing on People: Striving for Peace and a Decent Life for All on a Sustainable Planet”. Mr Adesina’s statement also stated that “President Buhari and members of his delegation will strive to project Nigeria as a strong moral force and responsible member of the international community”.
The United Nations is the world’s most inter-governmental organisation, with 193 nations as members. The General Assembly is one of its six main organs, the only one in which all Member states have equal representation: one nation, one vote. All 193 Members States of the United Nations are represented in this unique forum to discuss and work together on a wide array of international issues covered by the UN Charter, such as development, peace and security, international law, according to information on the United Nations website.
Buhari is expected to meet with US President Donald Trump. Trump spoke with Buhari after his inauguration in January while Buhari was on his first medical trip of the year in London. Vice President Osinbajo met with Trump and other world leaders at the G20 summit in Hamburg in May. This time, Buhari will also meet the UN Secretary General, Antonio Gutteres.
