Florence Otedola, often known as DJ Cuppy, is the first British-Nigerian to host the opening session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
During the weekend, the daughter of Nigerian billionaire Femi Otedola and founder of the Cuppy Foundation anchored the session titled “The Summit of the Future – Youth Action Day,” marking a key milestone in her career.
She invigorated the Assembly with her keynote speech, engaging the audience and injecting a youthful energy into the proceedings.
During her opening remarks, Cuppy introduced herself in her signature style: “My name is Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola, but you can call me Cuppy. I’m repping a country called Nigeria, in case you’ve heard of it. I’m a DJ, philanthropist, but also your moderator.
“But it feels like I’m more your co-host, because today is all about you. It’s all about you. Now, someone once told me, it’s not about your ‘what’, but it’s about your ‘why’. So why are we here? We believe that youth need to be able to take action.
“We believe in leadership that brings everyone to the table. And that’s why I’m just so proud to be here. My favourite Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is definitely 4: “Opportunity for Everyone to Get Quality Education”
“And at my foundation, the Cuppy Foundation, I’m so proud because we provide funds for African students. So throughout today, this opening ceremony, I’d love you to get involved in the conversation,” she told an excited audience.
She also emphasised the importance of youth leadership and action.
“Someone once told me, it’s not about your ‘what’, but it’s about your ‘why’. So why are we here? We believe that youth need to be able to take action. We believe in leadership that brings everyone to the table. And that’s why I’m just so proud to be here.”
Cuppy shared her passion for education, stating, “My favourite Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) is definitely 4: ‘Opportunity for Everyone to Get Quality Education.’ At my foundation, the Cuppy Foundation, I’m so proud because we provide funds for African students. So throughout today, this opening ceremony, I’d love you to get involved in the conversation,” she said to an enthusiastic audience.
In a powerful close to the event, she thrilled the audience with her musical performance.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is also in New York to represent Nigeria at the 79th UNGA.
As directed by President Bola Tinubu, Shettima is leading Nigeria’s delegation to this year’s UNGA, where he will deliver Nigeria’s national statement and participate in various high-level meetings.
The vice president left the country on Sunday.