Commonwealth Secretary-General to visit Ghana and Nigeria

In the course of his first trip to both countries since he took office one year ago, the Secretary-General will hold meetings with President John Evans Atta Mills of Ghana and President Umaru Yar'Adua of Nigeria.

"Ghana and Nigeria are respected and valued members of the Commonwealth," the Secretary-General said. "At a time of great global, regional and national challenge, it is vital that their voices be heard in the run-up to an important Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Port of Spain in November."

"My visit is also an opportunity to ensure that Commonwealth assistance continues to meet the governance and development needs of the people of Ghana, Nigeria and the wider region. We are currently active in education, health, small and medium size business development, debt management, skills development for women and young people, and trade promotion," said Mr Sharma. "We also continue to support the strengthening of the democratic and public institutions that are essential to future growth."

"The exchange of expertise is two-way," he added. "The Commonwealth also greatly values and appreciates the contributions that Ghana and Nigeria continue to make, through providing experts and sharing best practice with fellow Commonwealth members."

Note to Editors:

The Secretary-General will be in Ghana on 14 April 2009 and in Nigeria on 16-17 April 2009.

For media enquiries, please contact Julius Mucunguzi at +44 (0)789 459 3517 or +44 (0)207 747 6382, or email: j.mucunguzi@commonwealth.int.

Secretariat Links:

• Country Profile: Ghana
• Country Profile: Nigeria