On Monday, Nigeria actively pursued South Africa’s support for its ambition to become a full member of significant international economic groups, including the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. This request was made by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during her concluding remarks at the ministerial session of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town. As South Africa officially began its presidency of the G20, which consists of the world’s wealthiest nations, Nigeria expressed its hope to play a role in discussions that align with its interests under this presidency.
Nigeria’s request for support from South Africa also included assistance in promoting regional peace, particularly in the fragile state of Sudan. Odumegwu-Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to resolving the ongoing conflict, highlighting President Bola Tinubu’s proactive position as a member of the African Union’s ad-hoc mediation committee. The minister urged for collaboration to de-escalate conflicts within the region, suggesting that peace would lead to greater developmental outcomes across various sectors. Her remarks underscored the vital connection between peace, stability, and economic progress, conveying Nigeria’s determination to work closely with South Africa in this regard.
At the session, discussions culminated in a draft communiqué that will be presented to Tinubu and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa during their upcoming meeting. Minister Lamola of South Africa responded positively to Nigeria’s requests, reiterating the commitment to amplifying Africa’s voice in the G20 forum during their rotating presidency and acknowledging Nigeria’s role in this collaborative effort. The emphasis was placed on deepening bilateral relations in various sectors, including trade, investment, tourism, health, education, and climate change, while also reinforcing the importance of finalizing existing agreements under the BNC framework.
The ministerial meeting served as a precursor to more significant high-level engagement, with plans for key agreements to be signed by the two presidents aimed at solidifying the strategic partnership between their nations. Nigeria expressed an eagerness to explore new avenues of cooperation, especially in infrastructure development and capacity building within the mining sector. Odumegwu-Ojukwu indicated that Nigeria is preparing a draft Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance the training and certification of Nigerian mining professionals, aimed at making them globally competitive within the industry.
Bilateral discussions also encompassed a wide range of critical areas such as defence, energy cooperation, manufacturing, and social sectors. The minister highlighted the strategic nature of Nigeria-South Africa relations and encouraged delegates to maintain a cooperative spirit. This sentiment corresponds with the historical context of their diplomatic ties, rooted in Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid movement in South Africa. Celebrating the 25th anniversary of the BNC framework, both nations acknowledged the need for expanded trade relations and investment opportunities to promote mutual economic growth, particularly within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.
The discussions also addressed regional conflicts and the necessity for dialogue as global responsibilities. Minister Lamola emphasized that South Africa’s G20 presidency provides an important platform for showcasing Africa’s developmental priorities. Additionally, Kemi Nandap, the Comptroller-General of the Nigeria Immigration Service, mentioned the introduction of a new MoU on consular and migration matters, aimed at improving visa processes and ensuring the dignified handling of nationals facing deportation. These collaborative efforts exemplify the ongoing commitment to enhance bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa while fostering broader regional peace and cooperation in Africa.
