Nigeria Celebrates Election of New Commonwealth Secretary-General
Oru Leonard
In a momentous occasion, Nigeria led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has joined the global community in congratulating Honourable Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey on her election as the Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. This milestone event took place at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in Apia, Samoa, on October 25, 2024.
As the second African to hold this esteemed position, Botchwey’s victory is a testament to the continent’s growing influence on the world stage. Notably, she follows in the footsteps of Chief Emeka Anyaoku, a Nigerian who served as Secretary-General from 1990 to 2000.
Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu, extended his warm congratulations to Botchwey, acknowledging her remarkable achievement ¹. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Abuja, also released a statement applauding her election and expressing gratitude to the outgoing Secretary-General, Rt. Hon. Patricia Scotland KC, for her exemplary service.
As Botchwey prepares to assume office on April 1st, 2025, Nigeria and the global community eagerly anticipate her leadership in elevating the Commonwealth to even greater heights. With her wealth of experience as Ghana’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, she is poised to make a lasting impact.
The Commonwealth, an organization dedicated to promoting democracy, human rights, and cooperation among its member states, has a rich history of fostering global understanding and development. Under Botchwey’s guidance, the organization is expected to continue its vital work in addressing pressing global challenges.
Photo Credit of H E. Shirley Ayorkor: The Guardian ( UK)
