Nigeria has formally requested South Africa’s support for its bid to join the G20, BRICS, and the BRICS New Development Bank. The request was made by Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, during the closing remarks of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission in Cape Town on Monday.
South Africa, which took over the G20 presidency on December 1, is also a member of the expanded BRICS group. This alliance, which represents a significant portion of the world’s economic growth, currently accounts for 37% of global GDP. In her remarks, Ojukwu emphasized Nigeria’s desire for leadership roles in discussions under South Africa’s G20 presidency.
In addition to economic cooperation, Ojukwu sought South Africa’s support for accelerating the peace process in Sudan, a priority for President Bola Tinubu, who is actively involved in peace mediation through the African Union.
South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Dr. Roland Lamola, responded positively, assuring that South Africa would amplify Africa’s voice during its G20 presidency and work closely with Nigeria to deepen bilateral relations. Both countries are committed to enhancing cooperation in sectors like trade, tourism, education, agriculture, and technology, with plans to finalize agreements under the Bi-National Commission framework.
The session laid the groundwork for high-level engagements between Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa, where key agreements are expected to be signed, further strengthening the strategic partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.
