South Africa, Nigeria Deepen Ties at Bi-National Commission

Cape Town, South Africa — President Cyril Ramaphosa and Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu convened in Cape Town for the 11th session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission, focusing on deepening diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.

Marking 30 years of diplomatic relations, Ramaphosa lauded Nigeria’s pivotal role in opposing apartheid, crediting this shared history as the foundation for their ongoing partnership. The meeting addressed ways to enhance bilateral trade and investment, with both leaders agreeing on the need to remove obstacles hindering economic cooperation.

South Africa announced simplified visa processes to facilitate Nigerian business and leisure travelers, including a five-year multiple-entry visa for qualifying businesspeople. Tinubu acknowledged efforts under his administration to create a more favorable investment climate in Nigeria, encouraging further South African investment.

The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) was highlighted as a game-changer for economic integration, with Ramaphosa emphasizing the potential for increased trade between the two countries. Nigeria remains South Africa’s largest trading partner in West Africa, underscoring the significance of bolstering economic collaboration.

Regional and global issues also took center stage. Ramaphosa commended Nigeria’s leadership within ECOWAS, particularly in promoting peace and stability across West Africa. Updates on challenges within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), including developments in Mozambique and the Democratic Republic of Congo, were shared as both nations expressed commitment to resolving regional conflicts through diplomacy.