Ambassador Tijani Muhammad-Bande has officially handed over the reins as the 74th President of the United Nations General Assembly to Volkan Bozkir.
The United Nations Chief, Antonio Guterres congratulated Bande for his sterling leadership and for completing his tasks despite the numerous challenges that plagued him.
In his words, he described working with Muhammed-Bande as a privilege and expressed his gratitude forBande’s wise and determined and serene approach to unforseen challenges amongst others.
The new president, Bozkir also thanked Muhammad-Bande for his steady leadership and consideration. Read his inaugural speech in part here
“Your Excellency, you once described yourself as a perpetual student. Your efforts to navigate the General Assembly through these difficult times proved that you also a fast learner.
“Since the start of the pandemic, the office of the President of the General Assembly under your direction has guided the work of the body transparently and effectively.
“You have shown a strong leadership; I look forward to continuing to champion the priorities of your term, including poverty eradication and inclusive and equitable education for all.
“These Sustainable Development Goals are crucial to the future prosperity and peace of our planet.
“On behalf of all member states, I would like to thank you and your team once again and look forward to continuing to work with you as the Nigerian Permanent Representative,” Bozkir said.
In Muhammed-Bande’s closing speech he expressed his gratitude to President Muhammadu Buhari for nominating him and the other African Countries in the UN for their endorsement.
