Nigeria Prepares to Assume G-24 Chairmanship, Championing Africa’s Interests
The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, met with Dr. Iyabo Masha, Director of the Group of 24 (G-24), to discuss Nigeria’s upcoming assumption of the G-24 Chairmanship in 2025/26. The meeting also focused on the hosting of the Technical Group Meeting in Abuja in early 2026. During the discussion, Edun reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to promoting inclusive global growth and stated that the country would use its chairmanship to advance Africa’s interests and strengthen the Global South’s voice in international policy.
Edun outlined Nigeria’s key priorities, including accelerating the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), boosting intra-African trade, and deepening regional value chains. Additionally, the country aims to mobilize long-term capital through green finance and public-private partnerships, as well as power industrialization with renewable energy solutions. These initiatives are expected to contribute to the country’s economic development and regional integration.
Dr. Masha welcomed Nigeria’s proactive engagement and noted the country’s financial readiness to assume leadership. She emphasized the importance of aligning Nigeria’s agenda with global reforms in trade, industrialization, international tax cooperation, and climate finance. This alignment is crucial for ensuring that Nigeria’s chairmanship is effective in promoting the interests of the Global South.
The assumption of the G-24 Chairmanship by Nigeria is significant, as it provides an opportunity for the country to play a key role in shaping international economic policy. The G-24 is a grouping of developing countries that coordinate their positions on international monetary and financial issues. Nigeria’s chairmanship is expected to commenced in 2025 and will last for one year, during which the country will host several meetings, including the Technical Group Meeting in Abuja.
The upcoming chairmanship is also expected to strengthen Nigeria’s position as a key player in regional and international economic affairs. The country’s commitment to promoting inclusive global growth and advancing Africa’s interests is in line with its economic development goals. As Nigeria prepares to assume the G-24 Chairmanship, it is likely to face several challenges, including balancing the interests of its own economy with those of the Global South. However, with its proactive engagement and financial readiness, the country is well-positioned to make a positive impact during its tenure.
