President Bola Tinubu is set to depart France for Cape Town, South Africa, on Monday, December 2, to co-chair the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa.
The two-day event will commence with a ministerial meeting at the South African Parliament on December 2, followed by the presidential session on December 3.
This marks a continuation of the discussions the leaders initiated during their meeting in Johannesburg on June 20, 2024, after President Ramaphosa’s inauguration for a second term.
According to the presidency, the high-level talks will cover various areas of mutual interest, including diplomacy, trade, security, and regional matters.
The discussions will also assess progress since the 10th session of the BNC, held in Abuja from November 29 to December 1, 2021.
Highlighting the importance of the event, the presidency noted, “This year’s meeting is particularly significant as it coincides with the 25th anniversary of the Commission, underscoring the enduring partnership between Nigeria and South Africa.”
The BNC will feature eight working groups focused on specific areas, including political consultations, consular matters, banking and finance, defence and security, manufacturing, mines and energy, and trade and investments. Both nations are expected to sign several agreements and Memoranda of Understanding during the discussions.
Established in 1999, the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission serves as a platform to deepen cooperation and promote high-level dialogue between the two countries. Its inaugural Heads of State-level session took place in Pretoria in October 2019.
President Tinubu, who will be joined by governors, ministers, and senior officials, emphasized the significance of the meeting, saying, “This session is a reflection of our shared commitment to strengthening our historical ties and addressing issues of mutual benefit.”
The President is scheduled to return to Nigeria after the conclusion of the BNC meeting.
