Cape Town: President Bola Tinubu has emphasized the need for Nigeria and South Africa to lead the transformation of Africa, positioning their partnership as a model for leadership, economic integration, and shared prosperity across the continent. Speaking at the 11th Session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, Tinubu highlighted the strategic importance of collaboration between the two largest African economies.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, President Tinubu, who co-chaired the BNC with his South African counterpart, stressed the necessity for both nations to overcome impediments to their collaboration. He called for a concerted effort to transform Africa’s global image, urging South Africa to advocate for African interests during its G20 presidency. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s ambition to join the G20 alongside South Africa and the African Union.
Tinubu emphasized the importance of leveraging the Nigeria-South Africa partnership to enhance economic, political, and
social relationships, aiming to change the prevailing negative narratives about Africa. He noted the implementation of over 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements under the BNC framework but underscored the need for actionable execution to realize their potential benefits.
Tinubu highlighted the youth as Africa’s most valuable resource, advocating for stronger ties to harness young people’s potential in both countries. He acknowledged the significant presence of South African companies like MTN and Multichoice in Nigeria and Nigerian businesses such as Dangote Group and Access Bank in South Africa, but pointed out the need to address existing challenges and gaps in bilateral relations.
The Nigerian leader proposed joint efforts in mining to combat illegal activities and enhance professional capacity development, warning against the detrimental effects of illegal mining on Africa’s development. He urged both countries to address this issue on a global stage.
Reflecting on historical ties, Tinub
u recalled Nigeria’s support for South Africa during apartheid, highlighting the enduring brotherhood between the two nations in their mutual struggles and aspirations for democratic governance and liberation across Africa.