Picture: Barr Ifeanyi Ejiofor
By Titus Maduako, Eleweke
Anambra-born human rights lawyer and lead counsel to the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Sir Ifeanyi Ejiofor, has examined the major issues arising from the 81st United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), focusing on speeches by United States President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
In a commentary titled “Monday Musings: UNGA 2026, When World Leaders Spoke and the Delegates Became Spectators,” Ejiofor said Trump’s address centred on national sovereignty, reform of international institutions, economic strength and military power.
According to him, Trump opposed what he described as excessive global interference and called for reforms at the United Nations, including reduced bureaucracy and spending. He also defended US military action against Iran, demanded an end to Tehran’s nuclear ambitions and warned against excessive regulation of artificial intelligence.
Ejiofor also highlighted Netanyahu’s address, noting that several delegations reportedly walked out when the Israeli prime minister began speaking.
He said Netanyahu defended Israel’s military actions and cited Iran’s activities and the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack as key elements of Israel’s security concerns. Netanyahu also rejected allegations that Israel was committing genocide and blamed Hamas for operating from civilian areas, according to Ejiofor’s account.
Reflecting on the speeches, Ejiofor said the UNGA demonstrated the continuing importance of national sovereignty, security, economic strength, military capability and diplomacy in international relations.
He also questioned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s absence from the UNGA.
Ejiofor said Nigerians wondering why Tinubu did not attend the gathering should note that the President was in France on annual leave, which had reportedly been extended.
With a touch of satire, he contrasted Tinubu’s absence from New York with the presence of other world leaders, adding that the UN would remain in place and “New York would not relocate.”
Tags: UNGA 2026, Ifeanyi Ejiofor, Tinubu, Trump, Netanyahu
