Kehinde Fajobi
The South African government has eased its visa requirements for Nigerians, allowing business people and tourists to apply without submitting their passports.
President Cyril Ramaphosa announced the changes on Tuesday during the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, attended by President Bola Tinubu.
The announcement was detailed in a statement by President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
Ramaphosa explained that the new measures aim to boost economic cooperation between the two nations.
“Our efforts to create a favourable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple entry visa,” he said.
He reiterated South Africa’s commitment to removing investment barriers and addressing business challenges in both countries.
“As we mark 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we see a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a firm foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation,” he said.
Ramaphosa noted that several South African companies operate in Nigeria and encouraged more Nigerian investments in South Africa.
He acknowledged Nigerian government reforms aimed at creating a business-friendly environment for investors, including those 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,” he added.
Ramaphosa also pledged that Africa’s development and the challenges facing Global South countries would remain priorities on the G20 agenda.