Nigeria has called for stronger cooperation among Commonwealth member states on peace and security, trade, climate resilience, democratic governance and youth empowerment, as it outlined its expectations from the 2026 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in St John’s, Antigua and Barbuda.
The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, made the call during Nigeria’s interventions at the summit, emphasising the need for member countries to translate shared commitments into practical actions to address emerging global challenges.
In a statement issued by the minister’s Special Assistant on Communication and New Media, Dr Magnus Eze, Odumegwu-Ojukwu identified the fight against terrorism, access to development finance and stronger collective security as priorities requiring renewed attention.
On democratic governance, the minister highlighted Nigeria’s preparations for its January 2027 general elections and urged the Commonwealth to support credible electoral processes through election observation missions and stronger democratic institutions.
She said Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, remained committed to promoting civil, political and social rights, while upholding the rule of law and judicial independence as foundations of transparent and inclusive governance.
On economic cooperation, Odumegwu-Ojukwu welcomed the creation of the Commonwealth Trade Portal, describing it as an important platform for strengthening commercial relations and expanding opportunities among member states.
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“Nigeria is particularly pleased to note the creation of the Commonwealth Trade Portal. Trade facilitation initiatives will foster economic growth, expanding trade links among members, and assisting developing economies to integrate into the global financial market will most certainly go a long way towards boosting economic development and trade,” she said.
The minister also called for greater attention to women and girls affected by armed conflicts, displacement and climate change, stressing the need to guarantee their access to essential services, livelihoods and justice.
She emphasised that women and girls affected by humanitarian crises must be actively involved in developing solutions to the challenges confronting them.
Odumegwu-Ojukwu also welcomed the United Kingdom government’s agreement to engage affected countries in structured, time-bound, inclusive and good-faith dialogue on the matter.
The issue featured prominently in discussions at the summit, reflecting renewed calls for engagement on historical injustices and their enduring consequences.
Nigeria expressed hope that the outcomes of CHOGM 2026 would translate into concrete commitments to create employment opportunities, strengthen security and improve living conditions across Commonwealth countries.
The minister said Nigeria’s position was aimed at strengthening cooperation that delivers practical benefits to member states while advancing peace, prosperity, democracy and inclusive development.
