Youth leading key sectors in my government, says Tinubu

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu has called for stronger collaboration between Nigerian and South African youth to maximize their potential for economic and social development.

Speaking at the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission in Cape Town, Tinubu reiterated his administration’s commitment to youth inclusion, highlighting the prominent roles young Nigerians now play in key economic sectors.

“My government has built an inclusive system where young people lead some of the critical sectors of the economy, believing that their future starts now. Let us connect Nigerian and South African youth to leverage their potential for development,” he said.

Tinubu also acknowledged the robust business ties between the two nations, citing the successes of South African companies such as MTN and MultiChoice in Nigeria, as well as Nigerian businesses like Dangote Group and Access Bank operating in South Africa.

However, he admitted that challenges remain in the bilateral relationship and called for collective efforts to address them.

“I cannot pretend that everything has gone perfectly,” Tinubu remarked. “I believe we can identify gaps and challenges, including persistent irritants in our relations, and address them effectively. This is the core purpose of the Bi-National Commission.”

Speaking earlier, South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, highlighted Nigeria’s role as a host to several South African companies and noted that his country remains welcoming to Nigerian businesses, as demonstrated by numerous investments and operations within its borders.

However, he acknowledged the need to remove existing barriers to greater investment and to address challenges faced by companies operating in both nations.

“We need to remove the remaining constraints to greater investment, just as we need to address some of the challenges that companies have experience.

“We are encouraged by the actions being undertaken under your leadership to further strengthen and foster a business environment in Nigeria that offers assurances to investors, including from South Africa.

“Our government continues with its efforts to improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. We want to enable investors to operate, trade and pursue opportunities in various sectors. We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa,” Ramphosa said.

He also pointed out measures taken to support these opportunities such as simplifying visa processes for Nigerian businesspeople.

These measures, he said, include the availability of five-year multiple-entry visas for eligible applicants and a streamlined process for Nigerian tourists, who can now apply for visas without submitting passports.

President Ramaphosa expressed hope that the 11th Session of the Bi-National Commission convened would consolidate cooperation in critical areas.

He urged the implementation of previously agreed-upon decisions and emphasised the importance of monitoring progress to achieve shared goals.

Background

The Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission, established in 1999, serves as a framework for enhancing bilateral cooperation across economic, political, and social sectors. This year’s session marks the 25th anniversary of the partnership.

Tinubu highlighted the Commission’s importance in promoting Africa’s economic integration, particularly through the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). He also called for joint efforts to combat illegal mining, describing it as a “scourge” that undermines governance and development across the continent.

As South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa assumes the G20 presidency, Tinubu urged the use of the platform to advocate for Africa’s development. He reiterated Nigeria’s aspiration to join the G20, alongside South Africa and the African Union.

The Nigerian president concluded by emphasizing the value of unity and collaboration in reshaping the global perception of Africa.

“Our collective successes can transform the negative narrative of Africa as a continent plagued by poverty and conflict. Together, we can drive economic integration and development for the continent,” Tinubu said.