Vice President Kashim Shettima has been tapped to represent President Bola Tinubu at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Samoa. This high-profile assignment not only highlights the importance Nigeria places on its role within the Commonwealth but also sets the stage for the nation to play a crucial part in shaping the future of this influential international organization.
The 2024 CHOGM, scheduled to take place from October 21 to 26 in Apia, Samoa, marks a historic first for the Commonwealth. Never before has this prestigious gathering been hosted in a Pacific island nation, a fact that adds a unique dimension to the proceedings. The choice of Samoa as the venue underscores the Commonwealth’s commitment to inclusivity and its recognition of the critical issues facing small island states, particularly in light of climate change and economic challenges.
Vice President Shettima will join an illustrious assembly of world leaders, including King Charles of England, representing 56 member countries. This diverse gathering of nations, spanning multiple continents and encompassing a vast array of cultures and economies, reflects the Commonwealth’s unique position as a bridge between developed and developing nations.
The theme of the 2024 CHOGM, “One Resilient Common Future: Transforming our Common Wealth,” encapsulates the pressing need for collective action in an increasingly interconnected yet volatile world. This carefully chosen theme will guide discussions on how member countries can:
1. Harness their collective strengths through resilience
2. Unlock untapped potential within the Commonwealth
3. Leverage the “Commonwealth Advantage” in trade and diplomacy
4. Foster a more connected and digital Commonwealth
These focal points reflect the organization’s recognition of both the challenges and opportunities facing its member states in the 21st century. From climate change and economic instability to technological disruption and geopolitical shifts, the Commonwealth seeks to position itself as a forum for collaborative problem-solving and mutual support.
Vice President Shettima’s presence at the CHOGM is not merely ceremonial. Nigeria, as the largest African member of the Commonwealth, is poised to play a significant role in one of the most important decisions to be made at the meeting: the election of the next Commonwealth Secretary-General.
The statement from the Vice President’s office highlights this crucial juncture: “In line with the Agreed Memorandum on the Establishment and Functions of the Commonwealth Secretariat (revised 2022) and the principle of regional rotation, the next Commonwealth Secretary-General will come from the Africa Region.
This rotation to an African candidate marks a pivotal moment for the continent’s representation in global governance. The candidates for this prestigious position hail from Lesotho, Ghana, and The Gambia, each bringing unique perspectives and experiences to the table.
Nigeria’s influence in this election cannot be overstated. As the most populous nation in Africa and a key player in the Commonwealth, Nigeria’s voice will carry significant weight. The choice of Secretary-General will have far-reaching implications for the organization’s direction and priorities in the coming years.
A key focus of the 2024 CHOGM will be on leveraging what has come to be known as the “Commonwealth Advantage.” This concept refers to the unique benefits that member states enjoy due to their shared history, language, and legal systems, which can facilitate trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
For Nigeria, maximizing this advantage could have significant economic implications. Dr. Chukwuma Soludo, an economist and former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria, explains: “The Commonwealth provides a ready-made network for Nigerian businesses to expand internationally. By strengthening these ties, we can create new export markets, attract investment, and foster innovation through knowledge sharing.
The digital aspect of the Commonwealth, another focal point of the meeting, presents both challenges and opportunities for Nigeria. As Africa’s largest tech hub, Nigeria has the potential to lead in shaping policies around digital governance, cybersecurity, and the digital economy within the Commonwealth.
Tech entrepreneur Iyinoluwa Aboyeji sees this as a critical moment: “Nigeria’s burgeoning tech sector gives us a unique perspective on digital issues. At CHOGM, we have the chance to advocate for policies that support innovation while addressing concerns like data privacy and digital inclusion.
As Vice President Shettima prepares to represent Nigeria at this crucial meeting, he faces the challenge of balancing national interests with the broader goals of the Commonwealth. Key issues on Nigeria’s agenda are likely to include:
1. Economic cooperation and trade facilitation within the Commonwealth
2. Support for Nigeria’s efforts to combat terrorism and promote regional security
3. Addressing climate change and its impact on Nigerian agriculture and coastal communities
4. Promoting educational exchanges and skills development programs
5. Strengthening democratic institutions and good governance
Ambassador Amina Mohammed, a veteran diplomat, emphasizes the importance of this balancing act: “While pushing for our national priorities, we must also show leadership in addressing shared challenges. Nigeria’s success is intrinsically linked to the stability and prosperity of our Commonwealth partners.
The outcomes of the 2024 CHOGM in Samoa will have lasting implications for both Nigeria and the broader Commonwealth. As Vice President Shettima engages with world leaders and participates in crucial decisions, he carries the hopes and aspirations of millions of Nigerians.
The election of a new Secretary-General from Africa presents an opportunity to refocus the Commonwealth’s attention on issues critical to developing nations. It also offers a chance to bridge divides and foster greater cooperation between the global North and South.
For Nigeria, a successful CHOGM could mean:
– Enhanced trade relationships with Commonwealth partners
– Increased foreign direct investment
– Greater support for Nigeria’s security challenges
– Improved access to educational and cultural exchange programs
– A stronger voice in global affairs
As the world watches the proceedings in Samoa, Nigeria stands at a crossroads of opportunity. Vice President Shettima’s leadership at this crucial meeting has the potential to shape not only Nigeria’s role within the Commonwealth but also the future direction of this influential global organization.
The 2024 CHOGM in Samoa is more than just another international meeting. It is a testament to the enduring relevance of the Commonwealth in a rapidly changing world and an opportunity for nations like Nigeria to play a leading role in shaping a more resilient, prosperous, and interconnected future for all.
