Buhari seeks justice, equity for Commonwealth members

President Muhammadu Buhari has called for justice and equity for member countries of the Commonwealth just as he hailed the reappointment of Patricia Scotland, QC, as the secretary-general of the international body.

Leaders of the Commonwealth meeting in Kigali, Rwanda on Friday reappointed Scotland by consensus for another two years to complete the balance of her period in office.

The Nigerian leader, who commended the purposeful leadership of the Dominican-born barrister and diplomat in the last six years, noted that she has been championing the values of the association in the areas of youth, women and childcare, trade, among others.

The president expressed happiness that under her tenure the organisation is alive to its responsibilities in promoting shared commonwealth values and aspirations aimed at supporting collective interventions in health, climate change, environment, sustainable energy, ocean protection and blue economies, small and vulnerable island states, good governance, rule of law and democracy.

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President Buhari also welcomed the various declarations presented for consideration and adoption during CHOGM 2022 namely, the declaration on sustainable urbanisation; the Commonwealth living lands charter; and the Kigali declaration on childcare and protection reform.

He noted that the letter and spirit of these declarations were relevant to the common desire and aspirations to promote international peace and security, sustainable economic growth, development and the rule of law, good governance, democracy, respect for human rights and gender equality.

Buhari while wishing the secretary-general a very successful term in office, also thanked her for being very supportive of Nigeria during her term in office.

”My firm belief is that the Commonwealth will survive and thrive for as long as the principles of justice and equity remain the cornerstone of our political, economic and social contract,” the president said.