• Calls for enhanced economic cooperation and support for Africa at CHOGM
'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - In a powerful address ahead of the bi-annual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu underscored the renewed relevance of the Commonwealth, emphasizing its critical role in fostering global cooperation among its 56 member nations.
President Tinubu highlighted that if the Commonwealth, a unique alliance of predominantly English-speaking nations grounded in common law principles, did not already exist, there would be a compelling need to establish one. He articulated the necessity of such a coalition to amplify shared values and bolster the individual economic and geopolitical interests of its members.
Addressing ongoing skepticism regarding the Commonwealth's viability—particularly concerning members transitioning to republics—Tinubu dismissed misconceptions that such changes would threaten the organization's existence. He noted that when Nigeria gained independence in 1960, the Commonwealth included three republics, with Nigeria itself transitioning to a republic in 1963. Today, two-thirds of the Commonwealth's members are republics, illustrating that such transitions do not diminish the alliance's importance.
The President pointed out that the world is evolving beyond traditional regional trade blocs towards more expansive global networks. He cited examples like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS) as illustrations of this trend, where nations unite based on shared interests rather than geographical proximity.
Tinubu called for a renewed focus on economic cooperation within the Commonwealth, particularly regarding trade among its member nations. He noted that Africa is home to 21 Commonwealth countries, all of which are part of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA). By establishing bilateral trade agreements between AfCFTA and leading Commonwealth economies like the UK, India, and Australia, the President argued that deeper integration and collaboration could be achieved.
He urged larger Commonwealth economies to prioritize sourcing goods from African nations, advocating for trade agreements that would allow for preferential rates on African products. This, he argued, could stimulate local processing industries, create jobs, and offer affordable goods to Western Commonwealth members, ultimately reducing migration pressures.
Tinubu also emphasized the need for Commonwealth support in securing a permanent seat for Africa on the United Nations Security Council. He pointed out that Africa, which has been the focus of 70% of Security Council resolutions since the Cold War, remains the only continent without a permanent seat. Securing such representation, he asserted, would elevate the Commonwealth's stature and relevance on the global stage.
Notably, Tinubu acknowledged the recent formalization of Commonwealth caucusing at the UN, which enables member nations to present a united front. He argued that collective support for an African seat on the Security Council would not only enhance the Commonwealth’s influence but also affirm its critical role in global governance.
In conclusion, President Tinubu asserted that the Commonwealth’s time has come, advocating for a collective effort to redefine its role in an increasingly interconnected world. He expressed confidence that through enhanced cooperation, the Commonwealth can emerge as a pivotal player in addressing contemporary global challenges.
As leaders convene in Samoa, the message is clear: the Commonwealth stands at a crossroads, with the potential to become a more powerful advocate for its members and a stronger force in global affairs.
