Vice President Kashim Shettima has departed Abuja for Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, to represent President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the 2026 African Union (AU) Summit, where African leaders are expected to deliberate on key development priorities across the continent.
The summit, themed “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063,” will bring together Heads of State, policymakers, and development partners to address pressing challenges related to water security, sanitation, climate resilience, and sustainable development in Africa. The meeting forms part of ongoing continental efforts to advance the African Union’s long-term development blueprint.
According to a statement issued by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Communications in the Office of the Vice President, Stanley Nkwocha, Shettima will participate in the 39th Ordinary Session of the Assembly of AU Heads of State and Government, as well as other high-level engagements scheduled during the summit period.
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The Vice President is also expected to attend strategic side events and hold bilateral meetings with regional leaders, international partners, and business stakeholders. These engagements are aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s diplomatic relations, promoting economic cooperation, and expanding opportunities for investment and collaboration within the African continent.
Analysts note that Nigeria’s participation at the summit underscores the country’s commitment to regional integration and collective solutions to shared development challenges. Issues such as water sustainability and sanitation remain critical across many African nations, with leaders seeking coordinated policy responses to support public health, agriculture, and economic growth.
The AU Summit is also expected to provide a platform for discussions on infrastructure development, climate adaptation strategies, and financing mechanisms required to achieve the goals outlined in Agenda 2063. Observers say Nigeria’s engagement at the forum reflects its strategic interest in shaping continental policies and strengthening its leadership role within Africa.
Shettima is accompanied by senior government officials and members of the Nigerian delegation and is expected to return to Abuja after the conclusion of official engagements at the summit.
The outcome of the summit is anticipated to influence future collaborations among African countries, particularly in areas that impact sustainable development, environmental management, and regional economic stability.