CAPETOWN: Nigeria and South Africa have announced plans to finalise a five-year-old Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on an Early Warning Mechanism aimed at monitoring threats of violence and criminal acts involving nationals from both countries. This decision was revealed in a communiqué at the conclusion of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town, co-chaired by President Bola Tinubu and President Cyril Ramaphosa.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the communiqué, delivered by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, highlighted the urgency of finalising the MoU. It was agreed that the MoU would be signed by March 2025, coinciding with the visit of the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Nigeria for political consultations. The discussions were propelled by previous attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, prompting both nations to establish the Early Warning Mechanism as a preventiv
e measure.
The two leaders also expressed their eagerness to conclude additional new agreements to fortify bilateral relations. They emphasized the importance of deepening cooperation across various government ministries, departments, and agencies under the BNC framework. The communiqué noted the substantial economic cooperation between the two countries and encouraged reciprocal investments to further integrate their economies.
In the context of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), both nations have committed to enhancing trade and ensuring balanced economic exchanges by leveraging opportunities from the agreement. They also pledged collaboration on initiatives addressing food and nutrition security, digital connectivity, and the development of artificial intelligence. Furthermore, they prioritized digital literacy, data protection, and online safety.
The communiqué also outlined a coordinated stance on the upcoming African Union elections, aiming to support candidates committed to the contin
ent’s development agenda. The leaders reiterated the need for equitable representation within African Union institutions to reflect Africa’s diverse perspectives.
Concerning global issues, Nigeria and South Africa adopted a joint stance on the Middle East crisis, advocating for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomacy. They stressed the importance of adhering to international humanitarian law, protecting civilians, and promoting sustainable peace in the region.