South Africa and Nigeria become deliberate in pursuing joint economic opportunities!
South Africa and Nigeria become deliberate in pursuing joint economic opportunities!
The two African nations have come a long way dating back 1994 with the establishment of diplomatic relations that culminated with opening of High Commissions in Pretoria and Lagos respectively.
Over the past 30 years cordial diplomatic relations have been enjoyed, though not without challenges both economical and political.
In November 2021 the BNC was successfully held in Abuja with a delegation led by SA’s number one citizen, HE President Cyril Ramaphosa. This seating saw a renewal of commitment by the two nations one to another and a new Memoranda of Understanding (MOU’s) were signed in youth development, children and women empowerment, and political consultation. A review of earlier MOU’s in military cooperation, mining and processing as well as oil and gas were also included.
Key to this seating was an establishment of a Joint Ministerial Advisory Council (trade, investment, and industry) and critical, the South Africa Nigeria Youth Dialogue.
2024 November sees another seating to success with President Cyril Matamela Ramaphosa meeting with the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s President, HE Bola Ahmed Tinubu for their 11th session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission (BNC). The session was held on 3 December 2024, in Cape Town, the legislative capital of South Africa. This was significant to the 30 years of diplomatic relations between the Countries.
Many South Africans together with Nigerians welcomed this seating as spoke to the ordinary citizens and business communities.
The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) in the country was responsible for managing the country’s diplomatic relations, international cooperation, and foreign policy. It plays a crucial role in representing South Africa on global platforms, fostering trade relations, and addressing international challenges such as peace and security.
Ramaphosa together with Tinubu spoke about the importance of creating opportunities for one another as Africans. An emphasis was placed on driving mutual objectives on prioritising product placements and market access for respective business communities.
Some of their key discussions focused on simplifying visa processes for Nigerian business travellers to South Africa. As this aims to foster economic collaboration and growth between the two countries.
The two countries addressed issues related to consular and migration matters, defence and security cooperation, and collaboration in banking. They also included energy, manufacturing, and the social sector between South Africa and Nigeria.
The commission also provided an opportunity to explore new areas of economic, trade, and investment cooperation, further deepening the existing political relations between South Africa and Nigeria.
In November there was a preparatory session that set the stage for the presidential discussions, ensuring a comprehensive review and strengthening of bilateral ties.
The purpose of this session of BNC not only celebrated three decades of diplomatic relations but also aimed to solidify the partnership between South Africa and Nigeria. Their main focus was more on mutual growth and addressing shared challenges that are faced by these nations.
There is no doubt, with South Africa and Nigeria attaining success in their political and economic climates, the greater African political harmony and economic growth can be realised !!