Nigeria has requested South Africa’s endorsement to join the G20 and BRICS during a recent diplomatic visit. Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the appeal while in Cape Town for cooperation talks. South Africa expressed support, valuing Nigeria’s contributions as it takes on G20 leadership. Both nations aim to collaborate on development in mining and infrastructure amid Nigeria’s economic reforms aimed at diversifying away from oil dependence.
On March 12, 2024, Nigeria expressed a desire for South Africa’s support in gaining membership in the G20 and BRICS groups of significant global economies. Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, made this formal request during her visit to Cape Town for the Bi-National Commission Meeting, where both nations historically engage in discussions despite their political and economic rivalries. In response, South African Minister of International Relations Roland Lamola affirmed the request, indicating that Nigeria’s insightful contributions will be valued as South Africa assumes the G20 presidency. The two countries committed during this summit to enhancing collaboration in critical sectors, including infrastructure and mining.
The BRICS group, which includes notable economies such as China, Russia, and India in addition to South Africa, offers a platform for emerging markets to challenge Western economic dominance. This coalition accounts for approximately 37% of the global GDP, with several African nations, including Egypt and Ethiopia, recently joining its ranks. As Nigeria seeks to diversify its oil-driven economy and its President Tinubu implements significant reforms, the collaboration with South Africa is seen as a major step towards economic revitalization. This initiative is anticipated to receive further attention during the upcoming discussions between President Cyril Ramaphosa and President Bola Tinubu.
Nigeria’s recent outreach to South Africa for assistance in joining the G20 and BRICS reflects its strategic ambition to enhance its global economic standing. Both groups represent significant economic powerhouses where Nigeria’s participation could amplify its influence on the international stage. South Africa, having a leading role within these groups, is positioned as a critical ally for Nigeria’s aspirations, emphasizing the historical ties and collaborative potential between the two nations.
In conclusion, Nigeria’s pursuit of South Africa’s support to join the G20 and BRICS underscores a pivotal move towards enhancing its economic profile amidst ambitious domestic reforms. The collaboration between these two nations aims to foster closer relations and address mutual development goals. By leveraging South Africa’s influence within these global economics forums, Nigeria aspires to strengthen its economic stature and diversify its economy beyond oil dependency.
Original Source: www.dw.com
