‘My New Year resolution is to actively foster stronger Nigeria-South Africa relations for mutual growth’

The Chairman of APC South Africa and Founder of Jollof Cafe Franchise Group, Otunba Oluwatoyin Oyekanmi, has stated that his plans for the New Year include boosting bilateral ties through political party instrumentation.

In his New Year message to Nigerians, he said his goal is to improve the relationship between Nigeria and South Africa while recommitting to fostering collaboration and mutual respect for the betterment of both countries and the African continent.

Recall that in 2022, Nigeria exported approximately $2.25 billion to South Africa, primarily crude petroleum, while South Africa’s exports to Nigeria were around $521 million, mainly propylene polymers and apples.

According to reports, by the first half of 2024, Nigeria’s trade volume with South Africa reached ₦1.48 trillion in exports and ₦252.9 billion in imports, indicating a significant trade surplus for Nigeria.

In another development, the APC South Africa Chair, in a statement he jointly signed with the First Deputy Secretary-General of the African National Congress (ANC), Nomvula Paula Mokonyane, after the party-to-party discourse themed “Building Effective Partnerships to Advance Community Interests and Strengthen Bilateral Relations,” said the historic meeting marks a significant step towards strengthening political, economic, and cultural ties, as well as addressing mutual challenges affecting both countries and the African continent.

He added that both the ANC and APC recognise the shared history of colonial oppression and the fight for independence, which has historically bonded the two nations.

“Nigeria’s unwavering support during South Africa’s struggle against apartheid was a testament to the solidarity between our people.

“Both parties reaffirm their commitment to regular high-level meetings and cooperation on strategic regional and international issues. South Africa and Nigeria, as leading economies and political powers in Africa, aim to work together in advancing peace, security, and regional integration across the continent.

On strengthening economic ties, he pointed out that the ANC and APC are committed to enhancing trade relations and investment flows between South Africa and Nigeria, maintaining that both parties identify the need for policy alignment to support infrastructure development, increase job creation, and promote entrepreneurship in both countries.

“Additionally, the relaxation of trade barriers and streamlined immigration laws were discussed as critical steps to facilitate easier movement for businesspersons and skilled professionals.

“A joint task force will oversee economic initiatives that benefit both nations.”

Addressing xenophobia and Afrophobia, both parties acknowledged the challenges posed by these issues, particularly in South African-Nigeria relations.

He stated that the ANC and APC strongly condemn all forms of discrimination and commit to launching joint educational campaigns to foster social cohesion, tolerance, and mutual respect among citizens.

“It is crucial to address the root causes of xenophobic tensions and ensure that both South Africans and Nigerians feel safe and secure in each other’s countries.”

On cultural and educational exchange, the ANC and APC will prioritise cultural exchange programs aimed at promoting mutual understanding and appreciation of each other’s traditions.

“Both parties will also encourage academic exchange programs for students, scholars, and professionals to strengthen educational and research ties.

“These initiatives will foster deeper people-to-people relationships and promote long-term goodwill,” he stressed.

On her part, Mokonyane said security concerns, particularly relating to crime and illegal migration, were highlighted during the meeting as both parties agreed to enhance collaboration between law enforcement agencies, share intelligence, and work jointly to address cross-border crime and terrorism.

She said immigration policies will be reviewed to ensure proper documentation and legal processes for immigrants while upholding the rights and dignity of both South African and Nigerian nationals.

The Deputy Secretary-General said that recognising the critical roles of women and youth in driving economic and social development, both parties agreed to prioritise their empowerment through capacity-building programs, job creation initiatives, and political education.

“Women and youth leagues from the ANC and APC will collaborate on developing community-based projects to address social and economic challenges.”

The ANC and APC are committed to working together to create a peaceful, secure, and prosperous future for South Africa and Nigeria.

“By building on the foundations of our shared history, we will enhance our cooperation in areas of mutual interest, including political engagement, economic development, social cohesion, and regional stability.

“This joint effort reflects our resolve to advance the African agenda, ensuring the continent takes its rightful place globally. Both parties look forward to continued dialogue and cooperation, with the shared goal of promoting Africa’s unity, peace, and prosperity,” she noted.

As a successful entrepreneur, Hon. Oyekanmi’s Jollof Cafe Restaurant is a popular African cuisine restaurant that offers delivery, pick-up, and dining facilities. With years of experience, they have curated an exclusive African cuisine menu featuring various authentic South African dishes. Customers can conveniently place their orders online, with quick delivery guaranteed.