Former CS Amina Mohammed lands top Commonwealth job

Former Cabinet Secretary Amina Mohammed has been named Commonwealth Secretary-General’s Special Envoy for Sports, Enterprise, and Development.

Thanking her for accepting the appointment, Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said Amina is eminently qualified for the position.

Scotland cited Amina’s background and extensive experience as an international civil servant, diplomat, and government minister in areas of education, science, technology and innovation; sports, heritage and culture; girls' education and foreign affairs.

“The breadth of expertise and range of contacts on which you can draw will enable you to build in new ways on the immense potential of Commonwealth connection and the mutual support which flourishes among our member countries,” she said.

She noted that a copy of the terms of reference for the role of Special Envoy for Sports, Enterprise, and Development would be forwarded to Amina for perusal.

“I trust that they will be of value in guiding you as we work together on moving Commonwealth cooperation on development in these fields into a new era,” the letter stated.

Scotland added that she is looking forward to all that they will be able to achieve together, especially to build resilience for the more vulnerable member countries.

The new role comes barely three weeks after Amina was unanimously admitted to the Interpeace Governing Board.

The Interpeace Governing Board is the highest decision-making body of the organisation and plays a key role in defining Interpeace’s overall strategy.

It is the legal authority that is responsible for the organisation.

“I am truly honoured and grateful to the Governing Board for this appointment and the opportunity to contribute to the work of a highly respected organisation. It is a privilege to be part of a most distinguished team and thankful for your confidence in me,” Amina said on December 6, 2023.

Amina said she is looking forward to working with the board on the most pressing and challenging issues of the day.