Diaspora
Why G20, BRICS+ Shun Nigeria – Ex-Envoys
Some former envoys have said that the G20 and BRICS+ have continued to ignore Nigeria because of the country’s increasingly weak economy. Poor political leadership over the years has dwarfed Nigeria’s development, hence the country has not been able to meet the socio-economic standards of the G20, a premier global bloc for discussing economic issues; and the BRICS+, a nine-member economic and political force.
An import-dependent economy coupled with market instability and the unpredictable forex exchange regime cannot attract investors or economic allies ¹ ². These were the thoughts of Nigeria’s former Deputy Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Usman Sarki; Nigeria’s former Ambassador to the Benin Republic, Lawrence Obisakin; and ex-Senior Advisor to the United Nations (Nigeria Office),
Fred Eno. South Africa, with about 62.4 million population, and a Gross Domestic Product of $373.23bn, according to data by the International Monetary Fund (IMF), is a member of BRICS+ and the G20, while Nigeria with 227 million people and $252.74bn GDP is not a member of both blocs. Sarki said the membership of the two global groups is not automatic and that Nigeria has not met the economic standards to join the blocs.
He said Nigerian leaders must have the discipline to organize and stabilize the economy to attract investors and create jobs as these would send the right signals to the international community. Obisakin agreed with Sarki saying that no global bloc would want to work together with a country when there are no common interests. Obisakin, a former Nigerian Ambassador to the Benin Republic, said becoming a member of the G20 and BRICS+ goes beyond having a large population and vast geographical spread. He said when a nation is strong economically, people would want to identify with it.
When you talk about the strength of a nation, it’s not just demography, population could be a disaster if not a liability, we are talking of the Nigerian population being well trained and equipped. A country that is unable to feed itself is unstable, he added.
He noted political stability and security as another factor considered by developmental partners. Citing the recent suicide bombings in the Gwoza area of Borno State, the ex-envoy said, A country that is insecure cannot attract investments because if it can happen in the country, it can happen anywhere in the country.
Similarly, Eno, a former UN advisor, shared the views of Sarki and Obisaki, saying that with Nigeria’s intimidating population and the size of its economy, being a member of the G20 and the BRICS+ should have been automatic but for institutional challenges.
One would have assumed that it is something natural given the size of the population and the economy. For G20, part of it has to do with our own institutions and how they function, he said. Eno said Nigeria’s institutions are
not manned by the right people to provide the right kind of information that our decision-makers can rely on to make the right policies.
The three ex-envoys urged the Federal Government to set enduring solutions to the challenges of forex exchange volatility, skyrocketing interest rates, soaring inflation, food crisis, and many more encumbrances highlighted by manufacturers and industrialists because the internal dynamics of the country are what shape the image of the country externally
As Nigeria commemorates its 64th Independence anniversary, the stark contrast between celebration and the persistent challenges of corruption, mismanagement, and unfulfilled promises becomes evident.
The editorial revisits historical attempts at reform, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission’s (ICPC) prosecutions and the House of Representatives’ inquiry into the unfulfilled $14.5 million aircraft repair contract. Many of these initiatives have faded from public memory, leaving questions about accountability unresolved.
High-profile corruption cases, including the Halliburton scandal involving alleged bribes of $180 million, highlight systemic failures within the political landscape.
The editorial emphasizes the need for collective action from citizens, civil society, and the media to demand transparency and accountability. It warns that without addressing these entrenched failures, Nigeria’s path toward democracy and good governance may continue to be fraught with unfulfilled promises.
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Diaspora
Diaspora Watch 19th Edition (October 7-13, 2024): Your Trusted Source for Global News and Insights
Get ready to dive into the latest edition of Diaspora Watch, your trusted source for news, trends, and analysis from across the globe. Our 19th edition is packed with captivating stories, in-depth analysis, and breaking news that shape the world we live in.
From the electrifying energy of Elon Musk’s appearance at Trump’s Pennsylvania rally, attended by 60,000 people, to Nigeria’s anti-graft agency’s remarkable recovery of N13 billion in misappropriated public funds, we bring you the most significant developments making headlines.
Discover how the Lobitor Corridor is revolutionizing trans-African connectivity, bridging the gap between Angola, DRC, and Zambia, and fostering economic growth. We also shed light on the fraudulent agencies exploiting Nigerians seeking care jobs in the UK and highlight Grenada’s compassionate tax relief efforts for Hurricane Beryl survivors. Stay abreast of critical health concerns, including the alarming rise in kidney disease rates among Nigerians and Black communities in the UK. Plus, get the latest updates on global protests, economic trends, and inspiring stories of resilience and triumph. Immerse yourself in our special features, including an exploration of the sacred tradition of placenta burial in Yoruba culture and the remarkable story of an 81-year-old model stealing the spotlight at Miss Universe Korea.
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The Prime Minister of Grenada, Honourable Dickon Mitchell, and his delegation participated in a town hall meeting in Washington, District of Columbia (D.C.), on September 24th, 2024. Speakers included Honourable Joseph Andall – Minister of Foreign Affairs, Honourable Andrea St. Bernard – Special Envoy for Development and Investment in the Office of the Prime Minister, and Honourable Tarlie Francis – Ambassador of Grenada to the United States of America. The event was hosted by the Embassy of Grenada to the United States of America at the Ronald Reagan Building, International Trade Center, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington D.C. 20004C.
As part of Grenada’s ongoing celebration of its 50th Anniversary of Independence, the townhall meeting was an opportunity for Grenadian citizens and friends of Grenada to receive updated information on Hurricane Beryl recovery efforts, technical and vocational skills training, the medical sector, youth affairs, and efforts to overcome bureaucracy challenges in Grenada.
Prime Minister Mitchell thanked Congresswoman Barbara Lee (US Representative, California) for decades of support to Grenada. He shared his vision for Grenada’s future and listened to concerns from Grenadians in the diaspora. Hon. Mitchell commended the Grenadian diaspora community for their unwavering support and contributions to the country’s development. “Your dedication to Grenada’s progress is truly commendable, and I assure you that our government is committed to engaging and empowering you in our nation’s growth,” he said.
During the town hall meeting, PM Mitchell emphasized the importance of collective effort in addressing the challenges facing Grenada. “We must work together to build a brighter future for our nation. Your input and expertise are invaluable to us, and we look forward to collaborating with you,” he urged. The Prime Minister also acknowledged the diaspora community’s enthusiasm and willingness to contribute to Grenada’s development.
“We recognize that your willingness to contribute is contingent on well-managed and effective channels. We are committed to creating those channels and fostering a strong partnership with you,” he noted. PM Mitchell, therefore, expressed his gratitude to the diaspora community for their continued support. “Your love for Grenada is evident in all that you do, and we are grateful for your unwavering commitment. Let us continue to work together to build a prosperous and resilient Grenada,” he said.
View pictures of the event taken by Excel Global Media Group:
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