Chinedum Elekwachi
The presidential candidate of the Labour Party in Nigeria’s 2023 general election, Mr. Peter Obi, has met with the Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, at the Commonwealth Secretariat in London.
The meeting centred on promoting democracy, strengthening the rule of law, and prioritising youth participation and empowerment across Commonwealth nations.
Mr. Obi noted that with over 2.6 billion of the Commonwealth’s population under the age of 30, young people remain the organisation’s greatest asset.
He emphasised that Nigeria, has a large youth population.
Obi said the the country possesses immense potential that can be unlocked through meaningful investments in education, innovation, and entrepreneurship.
“Future of Nigeria and the Commonwealth depends on how well we harness the creativity and energy of our young people.”
Obi described youth unemployment as a deeply disturbing challenge that requires urgent attention and concrete action.
He stressed the need for partnership between national governments and international partners.
Commonwealth’s top priority
The Commonwealth Secretary-General, Hon. Shirley Ayorkor Botchwey, made history as the first African woman to lead the 56-member association.
She reaffirmed that her administration’s top priorities include education, youth engagement, and employment creation.
The Secretary General’s leadership has been widely praised for its inclusiveness and reform-minded vision.
She has also been commended for her renewed commitment to amplifying the voices of developing nations within the Commonwealth.
She reiterated the organisation’s dedication to supporting member nations in building inclusive societies founded on good governance, justice, and opportunity.
According to Obi, she further emphasised that empowering young people is vital to sustaining democracy.
“It is also important to shaping a stable and prosperous future for all Commonwealth citizens.
Obi commended the Secretary-General for her dynamic and inspiring leadership, describing her as a trailblazer whose commitment to education, youth empowerment and democratic values continues to strengthen the global Commonwealth community.
