Nigeria has urged South Africa to back its bid for membership in the G20 and BRICS, aiming to boost its global economic influence and leadership role in Africa. The appeal comes as South Africa begins its G20 presidency, a significant opportunity for the continent to amplify its voice on the world stage.
Foreign Minister Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu made the request during the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) meeting in Cape Town. She emphasised Nigeria’s readiness to collaborate on regional stability and economic growth, highlighting the urgent need for peace in Sudan, a crisis that President Bola Tinubu has prioritized through African Union-led mediation.
“We are deeply committed to resolving conflicts in our region, including Sudan, to foster peace and development,” Odumegwu-Ojukwu said. She added, “With South Africa’s support, we can achieve significant progress in de-escalating regional tensions.”
Economic Leverage in BRICS
BRICS, an intergovernmental group comprising Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, recently expanded to include Iran, Egypt, Ethiopia, and the UAE. The bloc accounts for 37% of global GDP, underscoring its growing economic influence. Nigeria’s push for inclusion reflects its ambition to access new development funding and shape global economic policies.
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Strengthening Bilateral Ties
South Africa’s International Relations Minister Roland Lamola acknowledged Nigeria’s aspirations, pledging to consider its requests under South Africa’s G20 presidency. He also reaffirmed the mutual commitment to strengthening ties between the two countries.
“Our people expect us to work closely to improve lives and prospects across Africa,” Lamola said.
The BNC session concluded with a draft communique, set to be reviewed by Presidents Tinubu and Cyril Ramaphosa on Tuesday. Officials from both nations expressed optimism about deepening cooperation on economic and political fronts, signaling a new chapter in Nigeria-South Africa relations.
