Cross River State Delegation Joins World Leaders at 80th UN General Assembly in New York

Cross River State Delegation Joins World Leaders at 80th UN General Assembly in New York

By Joseph Iyaji | Akahi News

The Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Dr Peter Odey, has led a high-powered delegation from the state to the 80th United Nations General Assembly (UNGA 80) in New York, United States. The annual global gathering, now in its 80th edition, brings together world leaders, policymakers, and experts to discuss peace, development, climate change, and human rights.

The Cross River delegation includes High Chief Higgins Peters, popularly known as the Natural Leader of the North, and Hon. Oden Ewa, Commissioner for Special Duties and Chairman of the Cross River State Green Economy Commission.

The team arrived in New York on Monday ahead of the 2025 Climate Week, an event aligned with this year’s UNGA theme: “Better Together: 80 Years and More for Peace, Development and Human Rights.”

Cross River’s Green Economy Agenda in the Spotlight

Cross River State, blessed with one of the largest rainforests in Nigeria and West Africa, is expected to leverage the global stage to showcase its commitment to environmental conservation, green energy, and climate resilience.

Analysts believe the state, under Governor Bassey Otu’s leadership, has a unique opportunity to position itself as a model for sustainable development in Africa, drawing inspiration from countries like Brazil that have successfully blended economic growth with rainforest preservation.

According to experts, outcomes from UNGA 80 could pave the way for increased funding, partnerships, and international collaborations to drive Cross River’s green economy agenda, which has been identified as a key growth area for Nigeria’s long-term environmental and economic stability.

Packed Schedule of Events

The 80th UN General Assembly, which opened on 9th September, officially commenced its high-level General Debate on Monday, 22nd September, and will run until 30th September 2025.

This year’s programme features over a dozen high-level meetings, summits, and debates covering critical global issues, including peacebuilding, climate change, mental health, artificial intelligence governance, and the elimination of nuclear weapons.

Some key events include:

• 22nd September:
  • High-level Meeting to Commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the United Nations (9 am – 10 am)
  • SDG Moment at the Economic and Social Council Chamber (2 pm – 4 pm)
  • International Conference for the Peaceful Settlement of the Question of Palestine (3 pm – 6 pm)
• 24th September:
  • Climate Summit at the Trusteeship Council Chamber (2 pm – 6 pm)
  • First Biennial Summit for a Sustainable, Inclusive and Resilient Global Economy (9 am – 6 pm)
• 25th September:
  • High-level Meeting on the Prevention and Control of Noncommunicable Diseases (10 am – 6 pm)
  • Global Dialogue on AI Governance (3 pm – 6 pm)
• 26th September:
  • Commemoration of the International Day for the Total Elimination of Nuclear Weapons (10 am – 1 pm / 3 pm – 6 pm)
• 30th September:
  • High-level Conference on the Situation of Rohingya Muslims and Other Minorities in Myanmar (10 am – 1 pm / 3 pm – 6 pm)

With over 150 world leaders scheduled to speak, the General Debate is expected to highlight urgent global challenges and explore collaborative solutions for peace, security, and sustainability.

Cross River’s Strategic Position

For Cross River State, participation in UNGA 80 represents more than just diplomatic visibility. It offers a chance to attract international support for its climate initiatives, strengthen ties with development partners, and showcase its potential as a leader in Nigeria’s green economy transition.

Speaking ahead of the event, insiders hinted that the Deputy Governor’s delegation would engage in bilateral meetings with global climate organisations, donor agencies, and investors to explore opportunities for renewable energy, carbon credits, and eco-tourism in the state.

Looking Ahead

As the world grapples with climate change, economic uncertainty, and geopolitical tensions, Cross River’s involvement at this year’s UNGA sends a clear message: the state is ready to be part of global solutions while driving local development.

By the end of the Assembly, stakeholders expect actionable resolutions that will benefit not only Cross River but also Nigeria’s broader environmental and economic agenda.

Akahi News http://www.akahinews.org

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