By Daniel Tyokua
The Royal Commonwealth Society, Nigeria branch has called for collective commitment from strategic stakeholders to improve economic growth, facilitate trade, and promote investment throughout the commonwealth.
Country Director/ Chief Executive Officer of the Nigeria branch, Mr Blackson Bayewumi during the 2025 edition of the commonwealth high commissioners banquet and awards, acknowledged efforts of the stakeholders but canvassed sustainability.
He said the initiative is aimed at providing an important moment to raise the profile of the Commonwealth and to address the challenges facing its 56 member states and 2.7 billion people.
Bayewumi explained that Commonwealth as one of the leading multilateral Organizations, second to the United Nations, is an association of governments and peoples, built around shared language, institutions, challenges, aspirations and values.
According to him, Unlike most other international associations, the Commonwealth works on a consensus model and membership is voluntary, predicated primarily on a country’s commitment to upholding shared values and principles, including the protection and promotion of human rights, democracy and the rule of law. There are now 56 member states, with a combined population of 2.7 Billion (approximately 30% of the world’s population).
In her remarks, the chairman of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Abike Dabiri -Erewa commended the initiative by the Royal Commonwealth Society, Nigeria branch in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and other significant stakeholders, underscores the the collective commitment to enhancing economic growth.
Dabiri -Erewa represented by secretary of the commission, Dr Sule Bassi, said diplomacy and collaboration were key areas to foster unity and progress.
She explained that strategic roles will continue to help in advancing the federal government Renewed Hope Agenda, especially in areas such as economic development, poverty alleviation, job creation and sustainable growth.
“As we unite to celebrate our common values and explore new opportunities, it is essential to acknowledge the critical role that diplomacy and collaboration play in advancing the federal government’s Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly in areas such as economic development, poverty, alleviation, job creation, and sustainable growth” Dabiri – Erewa said.
Highlight of the programme was the presentation of award to some stakeholders who have contributed positively to the commonwealth.
