The Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture (NACCIMA) is strengthening ties and harnessing the collective economic potential of Nigeria and South Africa to drive growth and prosperity in the countries and on the African continent.
To this end, the national president of the NACCIMA, Dele Kelvin Oye, has met with the South African High commissioner to Nigeria, Thamsanqa Dennis Mseleku to discuss ways to realise this ambition.
The leaders at the meeting which took place at the South African Embassy in Abuja, Nigeria, explored avenues to collaborate and share resources, leveraging their diverse cultural and socioeconomic strengths.
Oye noted that, “a sustained partnership between Nigeria and South Africa holds immense promise for both nations and the continent as a whole which is the reason for this visit. We believe that by combining our resources, expertise, and innovation, we can unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development.”
According to the NACCIMA boss, the discussions during the symbolic meeting centred on the establishment of strategic public-private partnerships that would promote innovation, technology transfer, and investment, adding that such partnerships are instrumental in catalysing economic diversification, creating jobs, and driving industrialisation.
Noting that the two countries have the potential to become economic powerhouses on the continent, Oye stated that, “South Africa and Nigeria share a common history – both have struggled against apartheid and colonialism. They have a shared history of liberation movements that fought for the freedom and dignity of their people.
Today, despite their diverse cultural and socioeconomic differences, they stand as beacons of hope for the black race and Africa. It is, therefore, imperative that they collaborate, share resources, and work towards the development of Africa.”
The visit, he noted, is an indication of the strong desire to foster a profitable relationship between Nigeria and South Africa, adding that this relationship can be leveraged towards catalysing innovations and creativity among the youth and women.
“The relationship between Nigeria and South Africa has the potential to be a litmus test for African unity and solidarity. The importance of this visit cannot be overemphasised, as it signifies a step towards building the resilience, prosperity, and connectivity of black African nations,” he pointed out.
