From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
Nigeria and South Africa have agreed to expedite the finalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on an Early Warning Mechanism designed to monitor and prevent violence and criminal acts involving nationals of both countries.
This agreement was reached during the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC), held in Cape Town and co-chaired by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
In a statement by Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, the joint communiqué issued at the conclusion of the meeting highlighted the urgent need to finalise the MoU, which has been under discussion for five years. The mechanism seeks to address and mitigate threats of violence, particularly in light of recent attacks on Nigerians residing in South Africa.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, announced that the MoU would be signed by March 2025, during his forthcoming visit to Nigeria for political consultations. “The urgency of this agreement reflects our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our citizens,” Lamola stated.
During the session, Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing strategic cooperation. They directed ministries, departments, and agencies from both nations to deepen collaboration under the BNC framework.
The leaders acknowledged significant economic cooperation and welcomed investments by South African companies in Nigeria while encouraging reciprocal investments from Nigeria into South Africa. The communiqué emphasised the need to create an enabling business environment to foster growth and development.
Both leaders also pledged to leverage the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to promote balanced trade. They agreed to collaborate on initiatives addressing shared challenges, including food security, digital connectivity, and advancements in artificial intelligence.
They committed to enhancing digital literacy programmes and prioritising data protection and online safety for their citizens.
In a show of solidarity, Nigeria and South Africa agreed to coordinate positions ahead of the upcoming African Union elections. They intend to support candidates committed to advancing the continent’s development agenda and advocating for equitable representation within African Union institutions.
South Africa congratulated Nigeria on Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala’s reappointment as Director General of the World Trade Organization. In return, Nigeria expressed its support for South Africa’s candidate, Ms. Swazi Tshabalala, for the presidency of the African Development Bank, while seeking South Africa’s backing for Bankole Adeoye’s re-election as African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security.
Addressing Regional Conflicts
The leaders reiterated their commitment to working together and with the African Union to advance the African Agenda outlined in Agenda 2063.
Nigeria highlighted its efforts, alongside other ECOWAS members, to foster peace and security in West Africa. Meanwhile, South Africa shared its initiatives through the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to support peace in conflict-affected regions such as the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo and northern Mozambique.
Both presidents expressed concern over ongoing conflicts in Sudan, which have led to significant humanitarian crises. They called for renewed efforts to achieve peace across the continent.
Regarding escalating tensions in the Middle East, Nigeria and South Africa adopted a joint position advocating an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations. They emphasised adherence to international humanitarian law, the protection of civilians, and the promotion of sustainable peace in the region.
Nigeria congratulated South Africa on assuming the G20 Presidency on 1 December 2024, commending its focus on inclusive economic growth and innovation.