Tinubu congratulates Shirley Botchwey, incoming commonwealth Secretary-General
President Bola Tinubu on Saturday congratulated Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Shirley Botchwey, on her recent election as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The appointment makes Botchwey the second African to ever hold this position, following Nigeria’s Chief Emeka Anyaoku, who served as Secretary-General from July 1990 to March 2000.
Leaders from the 56 Commonwealth nations convened in Apia, Samoa, where they elected Botchwey, a seasoned diplomat and former lawmaker with over seven years as Ghana’s foreign minister, as the new head of the organization. Botchwey, 61, will officially assume office on April 1, 2025, becoming the seventh Secretary-General in the Commonwealth’s 75-year history.
In a statement by Special Adviser to the President (Information & Strategy) Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu highlighted Nigeria’s strong support for Botchwey’s candidacy, praising her extensive experience in public administration, foreign relations, and regional development. “Her career makes her a perfect fit for this role,” Tinubu stated, emphasizing his belief in her capability to bring a fresh perspective and renewed vigour to the Commonwealth’s mission.
Tinubu added that he looked forward to collaborating closely with Botchwey, anticipating that her leadership would enhance the Commonwealth’s role in fostering economic growth, strengthening political partnerships, and amplifying its influence in global affairs. “President Tinubu trusts that Botchwey’s experience will bring renewed energy to the Commonwealth’s efforts to advance meaningful economic and political partnerships,” the statement read.
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In his statement, Tinubu also reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to key Commonwealth objectives, including increased trade among member states, boosting African exports, and uniting Commonwealth nations to advocate for a permanent African seat on the United Nations Security Council. He called this a vital step toward achieving a more inclusive and representative global governance structure.
The President also acknowledged the contributions of the outgoing Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland, and expressed his gratitude for her years of dedicated service. He wished her success in her future endeavours, recognising her leadership in guiding the Commonwealth through a complex global landscape.
Written by Sakinat Musa Abubakar, Editor at Neptune Prime
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