By George George Idowu
Nigeria’s President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has emphasised the need for the world to come together in tackling the issues of climate change as soon as possible.
He made the call at the 2024 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) held in Apia, capital of the independence state of Samoa, where British King Charles III made his first appearance as Head of the Commonwealth.
Citing the severe consequences already faced, President Tinubu advocated for immediate, cooperative measures to address the escalating global crisis.
Represented by a delegation led by Environment Minister Alhaji Balarabe Lawal, Tinubu narrated Nigeria’s experience with climate disasters, including floods, degraded lands, and rising sea levels.
Lawal’s leadership at the summit was necessitated by technical flight issues that prevented Vice President Kashim Shettima from attending on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said:“We need to address the climate challenge very strongly because of its effect on our society; it is a global phenomenon. We have experienced flooding in our country, degraded lands, and rising sea levels.
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Minister Lawal urged the Commonwealth members to join forces against these environmental threats.
In another developing story, Nigeria reiterated its commitment to democracy, civil rights, and institutional reforms within the Commonwealth.
Minister Lawal underscored Nigeria’s belief in a more efficient, results-oriented Commonwealth, positioning the nation as a strong advocate for changes aimed at bolstering the organization’s effectiveness.
The meeting, which took place from October 21 to 26, also witnessed the election of a new Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey of Ghana, whose candidacy enjoyed Nigeria’s support, with President Tinubu extending congratulations to both Botchwey and Ghana.
The environment minister expressed optimism that Botchwey’s leadership would foster stronger ties between Africa and the Commonwealth.
Leaders took turns to commend King Charles for his dedication to sustainability, resilience, and his commitment to supporting small island states through the King’s Commonwealth Fellowship Programme.
The gathering also reflected on the indelible legacy of the late Queen Elizabeth II, who served as head of The Commonwealth for over seventy years.
In addition, the meeting concluded with an announcement that Antigua and Barbuda would host the next CHOGM in 2026.
