By Salif Atojoko

Nigeria and South Africa have agreed to finalise the five-year-old Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Early Warning Mechanism, which monitors threats of violence, acts of criminality, and reprisals involving nationals of both countries.

The decision was announced in a communiqué released at the end of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) on Tuesday in Cape Town.

President Bola Tinubu and President Cyril Ramaphosa co-chaired the meeting.

In the wake of the attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, both countries agreed to establish an Early Warning Mechanism to prevent such attacks.

Before the 11th BNC meeting, both parties agreed to harmonise all contentious areas, conclude and present during the BNC.

The joint communique, read by Mr Ronald Lamola, South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, said the two leaders underscored the urgent need to finalise the MoU.

“To this end, it was agreed that the MoU will be signed no later than March 2025, during the visit of the South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Nigeria for political consultations,” Lamola said.

Presidents Tinubu and Ramaphosa welcomed the ongoing negotiations to conclude other new agreements.

According to the communique, both leaders renewed their commitment to work closely to broaden and sustain the two nations’ bilateral relationship to enhance strategic cooperation and partnership for mutual benefit.

“In this regard, the Heads of State and Government directed the various Ministries, Departments and Agencies to deepen their cooperation in the context of the BNC.

“The Heads of State and Government welcomed the high levels of economic cooperation between the two countries.

“In this regard, they welcomed the significant investments of South African companies in Nigeria and encouraged corresponding Nigerian investments in the South African economy,” said the Minister.

On the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), which both Nigeria and South Africa have ratified, the two leaders committed to working towards increased and balanced trade between the two countries by utilising the opportunities provided by the agreement.

Nigeria and South Africa also agreed to collaborate on programmes that address mutual challenges in food and nutrition security, strengthen meaningful digital connectivity, and take leadership in developing artificial intelligence.

They also committed to expanding digital literacy initiatives and prioritising data protection and online safety for all citizens.

They also resolve to coordinate their positions on the upcoming African Union elections to ensure the election of candidates committed to advancing the continent’s development agenda.

They reiterated their mutual support for equitable representation within African Union institutions that reflected the continent’s diverse perspectives.

On the escalating crisis in the Middle East, the two countries adopted a joint position calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomacy.

They emphasised the importance of upholding international humanitarian law, ensuring the protection of civilians, and promoting sustainable peace in the region. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Oluwafunke Ishola