Fani-Kayode vows to strengthen Nigeria-South Africa relations

Nigeria’s new ambassador to South Africa, Femi Fani-Kayode, has pledged to strengthen diplomatic and economic relations between both countries, describing their partnership as crucial to the future of the African continent.

Fani-Kayode made the commitment while presenting his letters of credence to South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, following his appointment by President Bola Tinubu as Nigeria’s head of mission in the country.

He said his assignment would focus on rebuilding bridges, addressing areas of mutual concern and strengthening the longstanding relationship between the two African nations.

“Part of my job here is to reset that relationship, to come and build that bridge and to ensure that whatever concerns we have mutually, we can work them out and move forward together,” he said.

The former minister recalled Nigeria’s support for South Africa during the struggle against apartheid, saying both countries had a long history of friendship and solidarity.

He referenced the release of former South African President Nelson Mandela from detention and the country’s transition to democratic rule, recalling Nigeria’s contribution during the period.

“We fought together, we stood by you, we gave our blood and our treasure for you during your dark days,” Fani-Kayode told Ramaphosa.

He also described Nigeria as South Africa’s largest trading partner on the African continent, stressing that cooperation between the two countries was in their mutual interest.

“Without South Africa and Nigeria working together, closely together, the destiny of our great continent may well be affected,” he said.

Fani-Kayode commended South Africa’s position on international issues, particularly its stance on the conflict in Gaza, its participation in BRICS and its engagement with the Global South.

He also praised Ramaphosa’s efforts towards Nigeria’s inclusion in the Group of 20, describing the development as significant for the country.

The ambassador said Tinubu remained a friend of South Africa and Ramaphosa, expressing hope that relations between the two countries would continue to improve.

“Your brother, our President, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, is a great friend of South Africa and is a great friend of yours personally,” he said.

Fani-Kayode wished Ramaphosa, the African National Congress and the people of South Africa well before formally presenting his letters of credence from Tinubu, alongside the letters of recall of his predecessor.