Nigeria Joins 144 Nations in Defying US Over Abbas's UN Address at 80th UNGA

A Decisive Vote at the 80th UNGA

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) recently witnessed a significant diplomatic event as Nigeria joined 144 other member states in voting to permit Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas to address the 80th UNGA via a pre-recorded video message. The resolution, adopted on Friday, September 19, 2025, passed with an overwhelming 145 votes in favor, five against, and six abstentions. Countries opposing the measure included the United States, Israel, Nauru, Palau, and Paraguay. The abstaining nations were Albania, Fiji, Hungary, North Macedonia, Panama, and Papua New Guinea.

US Visa Denial and Palestinian Participation

The vote followed the United States' decision to deny and revoke visas for the Palestinian delegation, including President Abbas, which was announced by the US Department of State on August 29, 2025. The US cited 'national security grounds' and alleged failures by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Palestinian Authority to comply with past commitments and 'undermining the prospects for peace' as reasons for its action. The UN resolution specifically authorizes President Abbas to submit his address from New York via a recorded message, which will be introduced by one of Palestine's representatives based in the city. UN officials clarified that these arrangements are unique to the current 80th session of the General Assembly and do not set a precedent for future sessions. The General Debate of the 80th UNGA commenced on September 23, with President Abbas scheduled to deliver his address on September 25.

Nigeria's Stance and Broader Implications

Nigeria's support for the resolution underscores a broader international sentiment regarding Palestinian representation. According to Nigeria's UN envoy, the country backed the resolution to ensure that 'Palestine's voice is heard in critical deliberations on peace and the two-State solution.' The envoy emphasized that 'the ability to participate, even virtually, reflects the UN's commitment to inclusive dialogue and multilateralism.' This vote is viewed by many as a diplomatic setback for the United States, which found itself largely isolated on the issue, and a symbolic victory for Palestine. The resolution also allows for Palestinian officials to deliver statements via live link or pre-recorded video during a high-level conference on the two-State solution. The event occurs amidst a period where several Western states, including France, the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Belgium, and Portugal, have announced intentions to formally recognize Palestinian statehood.