Presidential aide Ademola Oshodi says President Bola Tinubu’s absence from the 81st United Nations General Assembly will not affect Nigeria’s international role.

He said Tinubu is focused on domestic issues, including the economy and security.

Oshodi said Vice President Kashim Shettima and Nigeria’s UN envoy, Jimoh Ibrahim, will ensure adequate representation at the gathering, while dismissing claims that Tinubu’s absence was linked to any problem with the United States.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has, however, questioned Tinubu’s third consecutive absence from the UNGA, saying repeated representation by Shettima cannot replace the President’s personal diplomatic presence.