President Bola Tinubu is urging larger and more economically advanced Commonwealth countries to prioritize food and material imports from Africa to boost trade relations within the Commonwealth. In a recent op-ed published in the U.K.-based Telegraph, Tinubu emphasized the benefits of importing fresh produce like coffee from African countries at preferential rates, which would create jobs and enhance local economies ¹.
Tinubu proposed that Western Commonwealth members could receive affordable products they can’t grow domestically, while Africa would benefit from investment in local processing industries. This partnership would not only integrate economies but also reduce migration by offering better opportunities at home.
Additionally, Tinubu advocated for Africa’s bid for a permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council, highlighting that Africa is the only continent not represented despite 70% of the council’s resolutions affecting it.
The president also envisioned stronger trade relations between Commonwealth members across continents, particularly between AfCFTA members and countries like Australia, India, and the U.K. He commended the United Kingdom’s efforts in this regard and encouraged other members to follow suit.
In related news, Nigeria is facing food security challenges, with 25 million people at risk of acute food insecurity due to economic shocks, insecurity, displacement, and flood ². The country has been listed as one of the highest concern countries for hunger. To address this, President Tinubu has declared a state of emergency on food security and is taking measures to ensure adequate food supply.
These developments come as the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) takes place in Apia, Samoa, from October 21 to 26, with Vice President Kashim Shettima representing President Tinubu at the event.
