President Bola Tinubu has called for the Nigeria—South Africa strategic partnership to become a model of leadership, economic integration, and shared prosperity for the African continent.
Speaking at the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) on Tuesday in Cape Town, Tinubu urged both countries to overcome what he called “irritants” that hinder their collaboration and focus on transforming Africa’s global image.
The Nigerian leader, who co-chaired the presidential BNC with his South African counterpart, highlighted the importance of cooperation between the continent’s two largest economies and its potential to redefine the global perception of the continent.
He also urged South Africa to champion Africa’s interests during its current G20 presidency, reiterating Nigeria’s aspiration to join the bloc alongside South Africa and the African Union.
“The continent looks up to us; we cannot afford to fail it. We need to leverage the potentials of this partnership to strengthen economic, political, business-to-business, as well as people-to-people relationships between the two countries, bearing in mind the tremendous benefits it promises.
“Our successes will change the negative narratives of seeing Africa as a country perpetually mired in poverty and conflict and with their leaders unable to offer the kind of transformational leadership the continent deserves.
“As the adage goes, ‘the glory of the eagle does not please the kite,’ let us remain mindful of the overt and covert hostilities that the success of our partnership will attract.
“If we are vigilant, committed and persistent, we will surely soar like the eagles over the reach of predators. So, we must remain strongly united on purpose,” he stated.
Regarding the achievements under the BNC framework, established 25 years ago, President Tinubu noted that despite many setbacks, over 30 Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) and agreements are in operation.
He, however, stressed the need for actionable implementation of agreements.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the dark days of apartheid, President Tinubu described it as a historic responsibility discharged with pride and determination.
“As was expected, our efforts put Nigeria on a collision course with some powerful countries. Nigeria is proud to have shared the burdens of her brothers in South Africa during such critical times.
“This is the essence of brotherhood we seek for this continent: to stay side by side, shoulder to shoulder for liberation, discrimination and democratic good governance in support of the best and legitimate aspirations of the people.
“Just as we stood with you, we shall always remember how South Africa was with us at critical moments of our struggle against military rule,” he said.
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