Nigeria has officially requested South Africa’s support to gain full membership in influential global and regional alliances such as the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank (NDB). This appeal was made by Ambassador Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during the conclusion of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town, South Africa.
South Africa’s Strategic Role
South Africa assumed the G20 presidency on December 1, leading a forum of the world’s largest economies. It is also a prominent member of the expanded BRICS bloc, which now includes Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. Collectively, BRICS nations contribute about 37% of the world’s GDP and are considered a vital driver of global economic growth.
Nigeria’s Aspirations and Commitments
During her address, Odumegwu-Ojukwu outlined Nigeria’s aspirations to play a pivotal role in South Africa’s G20 presidency, particularly in leading thematic discussions that align with African priorities. She also emphasized Nigeria’s commitment to promoting peace and stability across the continent, with a focus on the ongoing crisis in Sudan.
“Resolving the Sudan crisis remains a priority for President Bola Tinubu, who is part of the African Union’s ad-hoc mediation committee. We look to South Africa to support efforts that accelerate peace and de-escalate regional conflicts,” she stated.
The minister commended the collaborative efforts of both nations in drafting a communiqué summarizing the outcomes of the ministerial session. This document, alongside agreed minutes, will be presented to Presidents Bola Tinubu and Cyril Ramaphosa during the presidential session of the BNC.
South Africa’s Commitment
Dr. Roland Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, acknowledged Nigeria’s proposals and expressed a commitment to amplifying Africa’s collective voice during South Africa’s G20 leadership.
“We value Nigeria’s input as we take on this responsibility. Strengthening Africa’s position on the global stage remains a shared goal,” Lamola said.
He also highlighted the mutual obligation of Nigeria and South Africa to improve their citizens’ quality of life and deepen bilateral relations.
Key Developments: Nigeria and BRICS
In October 2024, Nigeria was welcomed into the BRICS bloc as a partner nation, along with 12 other countries. This announcement was made during the BRICS Summit in Kazan, Russia, held from October 22 to 24.
The partner nations now include Algeria, Belarus, Bolivia, Cuba, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam. While Nigeria and these countries were admitted as partners, they are not yet full members of the bloc.
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