Vice President’s US trip aborted midair due to aircraft fault

Due to a technical fault midair, Vice President Kashim Shettima was compelled to abort his trip to the 2024 US-Africa Business Summit in Dallas, Texas. Consequently, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, will now represent President Bola Tinubu at the summit.

The fault occurred aboard the aircraft, prompting the Vice President to heed the advice of the Presidential Air Fleet and divert from the original course. The decision was communicated by Mr. Stanley Nkwocha, spokesperson for Shettima, in a statement titled ‘Minister of Foreign Affairs To Now Represent President Tinubu at US-Africa Summit.’

Although the specific details regarding the aircraft’s technical issue were not disclosed, it’s noteworthy that Vice President Shettima typically utilizes the Gulfstream V aircraft, a model previously employed by his predecessor, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo.

The Presidential Air Fleet consists of various aircraft, including the Gulfstream V, among others. While Shettima has since returned to Abuja, he remains committed to fulfilling his national duties.

The US-Africa Business Summit, a prominent event fostering economic cooperation and investment opportunities between the United States and African nations, will proceed with Minister Tuggar representing Nigeria. The summit, hosted by the Corporate Council on Africa, will convene political and business leaders from both regions to engage in high-level dialogues, networking sessions, and plenaries.

During the summit, Minister Tuggar will participate in discussions focusing on African infrastructure investment, agribusiness, and navigating Africa’s energy future. Additionally, he will chair a session dedicated to promoting the ‘invest in Nigeria’ initiative, underscoring Nigeria’s commitment to attracting foreign investment.

Minister Tuggar’s participation underscores Nigeria’s keen interest in fostering economic partnerships and exploring avenues for sustainable development. Upon the conclusion of his engagements in the US, he is expected to return to Nigeria, having contributed to advancing Nigeria’s economic interests on the global stage.