President Bola Tinubu has highlighted Nigeria’s contributions to end the apartheid regime in South Africa, describing it as one of the nation’s proudest foreign policy achievements.
Tinubu who said in his address to the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission held in Cape Town on Tuesday, also described Nigeria’s support for South Africa’s liberation struggle as a “historic responsibility” rooted in justice and solidarity.
He recalled how Nigerians from all walks of life mobilized against apartheid, convinced it was an evil that had to be swept away.
President Tinubu also acknowledged South Africa’s solidarity with Nigeria during critical moments of its political history, emphasizing the mutual bond between the two nations.
Tinubu commended the Bi-National Commission for facilitating over three dozen agreements since its establishment in 1999, but cautioned against focusing solely on the quantity of signed Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs).
The Nigerian president also underscored the importance of youth development, noting that both countries have significant young populations that should be harnessed for economic growth.
South Africa’s president, Cyril Ramaphosa also mentioned the importance of unity and collaboration and acknowledged that Nigeria is home to many south African businesses and citizens.
The high-level meeting marked the 25th anniversary of the commission, established to strengthen bilateral relations between the two leading African economies.
Editor Oloyede Oworu
