(Commonwealth_ CHOGM) As leaders gather in Samoa for the bi-annual Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM), intense discussions on free and fair trade, security, and climate action take center stage. With 56 member nations—predominantly English-speaking allies—this summit underscores the vital role of the Commonwealth as an alliance rooted in common law principles and shared commitments to global norms.
The importance of a global alliance among like-minded nations cannot be overstated. In the absence of such an organization, one would need to be created to amplify collective values and lend substantial weight to the individual economic and geopolitical interests of its members. The Commonwealth, with its rich history and broad membership, serves this purpose effectively. Yet, every two years, as CHOGM convenes, the usual questions arise: Can the Commonwealth endure in an era of increasing republicanism. Is the institution’s relevance in a landscape that lacks a singular market or political union.
Critics often mistakenly equate the transition to a republic with a departure from the Commonwealth. In reality, the opposite is true. For instance, Nigeria joined the Commonwealth upon its independence in 1960 and became a republic in 1963, transitioning from a constitutional monarchy to an elected presidency. Today, two-thirds of the Commonwealth’s 56 members are republics, demonstrating that a republican form of governance does not preclude membership; rather, it can enhance the organization’s diversity and resilience.
Historically, the Commonwealth has adapted to changing geopolitical landscapes, and it now finds itself more relevant than ever. The global shift from regional trade blocs to expansive networks of nations with shared interests presents new opportunities for collaboration. The Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), which connects nations across the Americas and Asia, and the Alliance of Small Island States (AOSIS), with its focus on low-lying coastal countries, illustrate the effectiveness of such multilateral arrangements.
In light of these developments, there is a pressing need for the Commonwealth to re-examine its economic cooperation and mutual political support frameworks. As President of Nigeria, the second most populous member of the Commonwealth, I advocate for enhanced intra-Commonwealth trade—an area where we have collectively underperformed.
A promising avenue lies in leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), which includes 21 Commonwealth member countries. By fostering bilateral agreements between AfCFTA and key Commonwealth economies such as the UK, India, and Australia, we can establish a network of interconnected trade agreements. This collaboration has the potential to drive economic integration and cooperation across the Commonwealth, ultimately benefiting all members.
For instance, the UK has proposed a trade agreement with AfCFTA, setting a precedent that other leading Commonwealth economies should follow. By prioritizing imports of materials and foodstuffs from African Commonwealth nations, larger economies can help stimulate local production and processing industries. This mutually beneficial relationship would not only enhance economic ties but also offer affordable products to Western Commonwealth countries while creating jobs and reducing migration pressures in Africa.
Moreover, Nigeria and its African counterparts seek Commonwealth support for a bid for permanent representation on the United Nations Security Council. Despite Africa being the focus of 70 percent of the Council’s resolutions since the end of the Cold War, it remains the only continent without a permanent seat. Such representation is crucial for ensuring that African perspectives are included in global decision-making processes.
Recent developments, including the Commonwealth’s initiative to caucus as a unified group at the United Nations, signify a positive step forward. While not every decision should be made as a bloc, a concerted effort to secure an African seat on the UN Security Council, bolstered by Commonwealth backing, would dramatically enhance the relevance and influence of our 56-member alliance. This action would affirm the Commonwealth’s significance in the contemporary world and address lingering doubts about its future.
In conclusion, the Commonwealth stands at a pivotal moment in its long history. By embracing its diverse membership and focusing on strategic economic cooperation and political representation, it can thrive in a rapidly changing global landscape. The challenges we face today demand a united approach, and together, we can build a stronger, more resilient Commonwealth for generations to come.
