Nigeria, S’Africa Sign MoU On Immigration, Others

Nigeria and South Africa have sealed over 30 bilateral agreements and Memoranda of Understanding, MoU, in areas covering trade and commerce, transport, immigration, security, among others.

President Muhammadu Buhari on Tuesday in Abuja welcome the South African President, Jacob Zuma, and a State Banquet was held in his honour.

Addressing newsmen at a joint press conference in Abuja, Zuma said the agreements signed by the two countries will foster their longtime relationship.

“We have had very fruitful discussions today, as we reviewed various bilateral and multilateral issues. We have noted with satisfaction the ever growing cooperation in many sectors including trade and investment; defence and security; immigration matters; energy; mineral resources, to mention but a few.

“We have recognised the important role played by the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-national Commission since its inception in 1999. As we forge a strategic partnership between the two sister nations, we have decided to elevate the Bi-National Commission (BNC) to the level of heads of State.

“In this way, my brother and I will be able to lead as well as monitor progress in various areas of cooperation.

“Our two countries have signed over 30 bilateral agreements and memoranda of understanding,” he said.

Zuma noted that in the last 16 years, business co-operations between Nigeria and South Africa have increased.

“Prior to 1999, there were only four South African companies in Nigeria. Since 1999, the situation has changed dramatically.

“Over 120 companies are currently doing business in Nigeria, in various sectors, mainly telecommunications, banking, retail, property, entertainment and hospitality.

“We welcome this significant development.

“We also see great potential in boosting tourism between the two countries. According to Statistics, an average of 4000 Nigerians travelled to South Africa on a monthly basis in 2015,” the South African leader said.