President Tinubu congratulates Shirley Botchwey on election as Commonwealth Secretary-General

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President Bola Tinubu has congratulated Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, on her election as the new Commonwealth Secretary-General.

Botchwey, 61, was elected during the Commonwealth leaders’ summit in Apia, Samoa.

The congratulatory message was conveyed in a statement by Bayo Onanuga, Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information & Strategy.

She will take office on April 1, 2025, becoming the 7th person to hold this prestigious position. Botchwey is the second African to lead the Commonwealth in its 75-year history, following Nigeria’s Chief Emeka Anyaoku.

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The Nigerian president praised Botchwey’s experience in public administration, foreign affairs, and regional development. Tinubu believes her expertise will be invaluable to advancing Commonwealth goals on global partnerships.

With Nigerian backing, Botchwey secured the position which shows strong West African solidarity. According to the statement, Tinubu trusts her leadership will energise the Commonwealth’s mission of fostering economic and political unity.

Tinubu ready to work with Shirley Botchwey

The President said he is eager to work with her to drive forward the Commonwealth’s vision for peace, equity, and shared prosperity. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to strengthening intra-Commonwealth trade and African exports.

He also highlighted the importance of a unified Commonwealth voice at the United Nations. The GCFR stressed the need for permanent African representation on the UN Security Council.

Additionally, he expressed gratitude to the outgoing Commonwealth Secretary-General, Baroness Patricia Scotland. He thanked her for her service and extended his best wishes for her future. Moving forward, Nigeria aims to play a key role in supporting Botchwey’s mission for the 56-nation bloc.

Tags: Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, Commonwealth Secretary-General, President Bola Tinubu, Baroness Patricia Scotland, Ghana’s Foreign Affairs Minister, Apia, Samoa, Emeka Anyaoku, #NewsRoundTheClock, #nrtcnewsnigeria, #nrtcnews, #nrtcnigeria, #nrtcsports.