Nigeria and South Africa to Finalize Key Security Pact by March 2025
Nigeria and South Africa are set to finalize a vital Early Warning Mechanism for regional security by March 2025, following discussions during the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission. The leaders committed to enhancing bilateral ties, fostering investments, and addressing mutual security concerns while collaborating on various socio-economic initiatives.
Nigeria and South Africa have committed to strengthening regional security by developing an Early Warning Mechanism to tackle shared security challenges. This agreement is set for completion by March 2025, coinciding with the visit of South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Nigeria for political discussions. The announcement was made at the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission in Cape Town, co-chaired by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of Nigeria and President Matamela Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa.
During the meeting, both leaders expressed their dedication to promoting peace and stability throughout Africa, while also enhancing bilateral relations. In their joint communiqué, they acknowledged the historic ties binding the two nations and emphasized the necessity of strategic partnerships to confront security, economic, and developmental issues. The leaders urged their respective agencies to enhance collaboration in these vital areas for mutual advantage.
The meeting highlighted South African investments in Nigeria, encouraging reciprocal investment from Nigeria into South Africa. Furthermore, both countries agreed to create a business-friendly environment to boost trade and investment opportunities, with a focus on utilizing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to promote balanced trade growth.
Potential collaborative sectors were identified, including mining, infrastructure development in rail, road, and ports, with Nigeria inviting South African development finance institutions to co-finance significant projects. The leaders proposed joint initiatives to address challenges related to food security, digital connectivity, and the implications of artificial intelligence, aimed at enhancing digital literacy and online safety for their citizens.
Both Presidents expressed deep concern regarding the crisis in Sudan and reiterated their commitment to the African Union’s pursuit of “Silencing the Guns.” On the international front, the leaders condemned the violence in Gaza, advocating for a ceasefire and humanitarian assistance, while reaffirming their support for a two-state solution and for the self-determination of Western Sahara.
The collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa emerges from a shared need to address increasing security threats within the region, as well as broader socio-economic challenges. The Bi-National Commission serves as a pivotal platform to enhance diplomatic relations and tackle mutual issues while fostering regional stability. The focus on strategic partnerships underlines the critical role that both countries play in shaping African political and economic landscapes, now more than ever magnified by recent global disruptions.
In summary, the commitment between Nigeria and South Africa to finalize a key security pact by March 2025 demonstrates a significant step towards enhancing regional stability and cooperation. Their focus on strategic partnerships in various sectors, combined with shared concerns for broader international issues, emphasizes their leadership roles on the African continent and their dedication to collaborative growth and peace.
Original Source: businessday.ng
