President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Ghana’s Foreign Minister, Shirley Botchwey, on her recent election as the Commonwealth’s Secretary-General. Botchwey, elected during the Commonwealth leaders’ meeting in Apia, Samoa, becomes the second African to hold this position in the Commonwealth’s 75-year history, following Nigeria’s Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who served from 1990 to 2000. She will officially assume office on April 1, 2025.
In a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu expressed Nigeria’s support for Botchwey’s appointment, emphasising her vast experience in public administration, foreign affairs, and regional development. “He trusts that Botchwey’s leadership experience will bring renewed energy to the Commonwealth’s efforts to advance meaningful economic and political partnerships that drive development,” Tinubu said, acknowledging her readiness to lead the 56-member organisation.
President Tinubu also highlighted his hopes for future collaboration with Botchwey to advance the Commonwealth’s vision of peace, equity, and prosperity among its member nations. He further stressed Nigeria’s commitment to enhancing intra-Commonwealth trade, boosting African exports, and advocating for a permanent African seat on the United Nations Security Council.
Additionally, Tinubu acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, thanking her for her years of service and wishing her well in future endeavours.
