Nigerian activist calls for stronger D-8 cooperation as Global South NGO launch new platform

A Nigerian climate activist has called for intensified cooperation among D-8 member states, highlighting the importance of collective action for sustainable development and economic resilience.

Speaking at the inaugural conference of the Global South NGO Platform in Baku, Olumide Idowu urged participating nations to bolster collaboration within the D-8 framework, which includes countries such as Nigeria, Türkiye, and Azerbaijan, Caliber.Az reports via local media.

“We must unite our efforts to achieve shared prosperity, sustainable growth, and stronger mutual commitments, especially through platforms like the Global South NGO Platform,” Idowu said. “True progress is only possible through partnership. This is why enhanced cooperation between D-8 countries is essential on this global stage.”

He described the Baku conference as a unified front against persistent injustices facing Global South nations, such as poverty, climate challenges, and educational inequality. Idowu added that Nigeria, as one of Africa’s most populous nations, continues to face serious developmental and economic hurdles.

“Cooperation opens the door to economic partnerships and inclusive growth based on the collective potential of D-8 member states,” he said.

Separately, Djibouti expressed interest in forging closer relations with Azerbaijan and its civil society institutions. Mohamed Duale, Director General of the National Agency for Persons with Disabilities and a presidential adviser on disability issues, made the remarks on the sidelines of the second day of the Baku conference.

“It is a great honour to be part of this platform’s founding moment,” he said. “It is vital that our countries are connected not only through government relations but also at the civil society level.”

Mohamed noted Djibouti’s participation in last year’s COP29 climate summit in Baku and praised Azerbaijan’s continued leadership in global cooperation initiatives.

“We look forward to close collaboration with the Azerbaijani government and all NGOs involved in this platform. This is a crucial initiative for all countries, and we are proud to be part of it from the outset,” he said, emphasising Azerbaijan’s active engagement and commitment to expanding international partnerships.

By Aghakazim Guliyev