President Bola Tinubu has called on economically advanced Commonwealth nations to strengthen trade ties with Africa by prioritizing imports of food and materials from the continent. In an Op-ed published by the U.K.’s Telegraph, Tinubu emphasized the potential for mutual benefits through deeper trade relations.
He suggested that larger Commonwealth countries could import fresh produce, like coffee, from Africa at preferential rates, in exchange for setting up processing factories on the continent. This, according to the President, would create jobs, stimulate local economies, and reduce the need for migration by providing better opportunities within Africa.
“Nigeria urges larger Commonwealth economies to prioritize importing materials and foodstuffs from African Commonwealth nations. Supported by bilateral trade agreements, there’s no reason why African coffee or fresh produce couldn’t be offered to Western Commonwealth members at preferential rates in exchange for investment in local processing industries,” said Tinubu.
He added that this approach would not only benefit the economies of both regions but also provide affordable products to Western Commonwealth nations that they cannot grow themselves.
Support for Africa’s UN Security Council Bid and Stronger Trade Ties
In the same article, President Tinubu called for Commonwealth support in Africa’s bid for a permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council. He noted that Africa is the only continent without representation on the council, despite being impacted by 70% of the council’s resolutions since the Cold War.
Tinubu highlighted the importance of stronger trade relations between Commonwealth countries, especially as the world shifts away from regional trade blocs. He suggested that the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) could collaborate with Commonwealth members like Australia, India, and the U.K. to deepen trade ties across continents. He also praised the U.K.’s efforts to enhance trade relations with Africa and urged other Commonwealth members to follow its example.
Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting
The Commonwealth is a voluntary association of sovereign states, including the United Kingdom and several former British colonies, united by shared ties and practical cooperation.
The upcoming Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) will take place in Apia, Samoa, from October 21 to 26, 2024. This will mark the first time the event is held in a Pacific Small Island Developing State. President Tinubu has appointed Vice President Kashim Shettima to represent him at the event.
In conclusion, Tinubu’s call for stronger trade and diplomatic relations within the Commonwealth aims to drive economic growth and global influence for Africa, while also encouraging investment in the continent’s industries and infrastructure.
