Hon. Kenneth Chibuogwu Gbandi, the longest serving Diaspora leader, who is also the National Deputy Chairman (Diaspora Engagement) of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), and the 2023 Senate candidate for Delta North speaking during a one-day summit on BRICS and the global south organized by UNESC Foundation in collaboration with the Universal Migration Enlightenment Center advised the federal government about joining BRICS, an acronym for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa economic block.
Hon. Gbandi, who is also the former Hamburg senate Foreigners Advisory Council, that actively involved in numerous initiatives aimed at promoting homeland development efforts and attracting both Diaspora and direct foreign investment, while thanking Prof. Jude Osakwe, Prof. Murice Okolie and the organizing team for orchestrating this insightful discussion stated that BRICS is another welcome economic layer for Nigeria and homeland development efforts. Joining the new economic block could potentially offer Nigeria several benefits, including increased trade opportunities, access to development financing, and stronger diplomatic ties with these influential emerging economies. Nigeria could also benefit from knowledge sharing (R & D), and cooperation in areas such as infrastructure development, technology transfer, and economic policy coordination.
The Diasporans-Nigerian politician suggested that carefully balancing Nigeria’s national interests with the collective goals of the BRICS group and managing geopolitical complexities will be imperative, noting that joining the group will certainly present big challenges to our traditional allies like the UK, US, and Germany.
Hon. Gbandi stated further, that like every international group, membership involves responsibilities, and potential advantages must be weighed against any challenges or commitments that come with it to be sure that Nigeria is not worse off in the end. Joining BRICS is already taking an economic alliance that is intertwined with political interest. Balancing Nigeria’s national interests with the collective goals of the BRICS group and managing geopolitical complexities may present big challenges to our traditional allies like the UK and the US. This will no doubt require significant diplomatic efforts and maneuvering.
He reasoned that undoubtedly, navigating these challenges will demand substantial diplomatic efforts and strategic maneuvering. Fortunately, Nigeria is currently led by a seasoned diplomat in the person of His Excellency Yusuf Tuggar, the Minister of Foreign Affairs. Having had personal interactions with him during his tour of duty in Germany, I am confident in his capabilities and wish him success in steering the country through these diplomatic waters. So there is room for optimism Hon. Gbandi concluded.
Joseph Adione (BSc., MSc.) – SA Political to Hon. Kenneth Gbandi, Delta North Senatorial Candidate in the 2023 / Kenneth Gbandi 4 Nigeria Organisation
