South Africa recently celebrated its 29th post-apartheid independence anniversary and 29 years of formal diplomatic relations with Nigeria.
The event was held on April 26, 2023, at SPMC Cilantro, Maitama, Abuja, with dignitaries from around the world in attendance.
The celebration aimed to promote social cohesion between South Africans and Nigerians through art and culture.
The event also aimed to position South Africa as a preferred trade and investment country that is open to business, with platforms for exchanging views, experiences, and sharing information on matters of common interests and mutual benefits between both countries.
The High Commissioner of South Africa to the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency, Thami Mseleku, highlighted the strong government-to-government relations between the two countries.
He stated that the South African National day had not been celebrated for four years due to Covid. Therefore, a week-long celebration was organized to celebrate all aspects of the relationship between South Africa and Nigeria.
The celebration sought to position South Africa as the preferred destination for tourism, education, and business.
Deputy Director, Southern African Affairs Division, Ministry Of Foreign Affairs, Ibiyemi Ajiboye-Roberts, stated that “Nigeria and South Africa will continue to collaborate and explore avenues to monitor bilateral commitments, broaden areas of cooperation for greater mutual benefits and deepen its brotherly ties.”
In conclusion, the inaugural South Africa week celebrations marked a significant milestone in the relationship between South Africa and Nigeria.
The event showcased the cultural diversity of the two countries and highlighted the opportunities for collaboration in business and investment.
The celebration also strengthened the ties between the two countries and promoted social cohesion, laying a foundation for deeper cooperation in the future.
