The Nigerian government, led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has formally sought South Africa’s support to secure full membership in the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. This appeal was made during the ministerial session of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town. A Call for Strategic Partnerships Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu Ojukwu, highlighted Nigeria’s commitment to global leadership, requesting South Africa’s backing during its G20 presidency. She emphasized the significance of BRICS, a bloc representing 37% of global GDP, and its potential to drive Africa’s economic and geopolitical relevance. Additionally, Ojukwu stressed the importance of resolving the Sudan crisis, aligning with Tinubu’s role in the African Union’s mediation committee. “With South Africa’s support, we can accelerate peace efforts in Sudan, paving the way for regional stability and progress,” she stated. Strengthening Bilateral Relations The session also saw discussions on expanding cooperation in areas such as: South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, affirmed his nation’s commitment to deepening ties. He pledged that South Africa’s G20 presidency would amplify Africa’s voice, emphasizing Nigeria’s vital role in shaping the continent’s agenda. Historical Ties and Future Collaboration The meeting marked the 25th anniversary of the BNC, celebrating the enduring relationship between Africa’s largest economies. Lamola acknowledged Nigeria’s pivotal role in supporting South Africa during its anti-apartheid struggle. He also urged both nations to unlock the full potential of their collaboration by identifying high-impact, bankable projects in sectors like infrastructure and agriculture. Migration and Global Advocacy A Memorandum of Understanding on Consular and Migration Matters was exchanged, aiming to streamline visa processes, enhance migration policies, and ensure humane treatment of deportees. Looking ahead, both countries agreed on the need to reform global institutions, such as the United Nations, to prioritize Africa’s development agenda during South Africa’s G20 presidency in 2025. A Shared Vision for Africa In her closing remarks, Ojukwu underscored the shared destiny of Nigeria and South Africa as Africa’s leading economies. “Through sustained collaboration, our nations can drive transformative growth across the continent,” she affirmed. This renewed commitment to partnership signals a brighter future for bilateral relations and Africa’s role on the global stage. Key Takeaways: With a robust roadmap for cooperation, Nigeria and South Africa are poised to shape Africa’s future as global leaders.
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.
