South African President Cyril Ramaphosa has unveiled a new visa policy that allows Nigerian tourists and businesspeople to apply for visas without the need to submit their passports. Additionally, qualifying applicants can now obtain a five-year multiple-entry visa.
The announcement was made on Tuesday during the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town. According to Ramaphosa, the move is part of efforts to streamline the visa process and foster closer economic and tourism ties between the two nations. “Our simplified visa process for Nigerian businesspeople ensures they can travel to South Africa with ease.
Qualifying applicants can now be granted a five-year multiple entry visa,” Ramaphosa said. Also Read: Breaking: The Nigerian Government Dissolves Brutal Police Unit SARS He also reaffirmed South Africa’s openness to Nigerian businesses, noting the significant presence of South African companies in Nigeria. However, he acknowledged the need to remove obstacles to greater investment and address challenges faced by businesses in both countries.
Nigeria, South Africa To Finalise Early Warning Mechanism MoU As part of their discussions, both countries have agreed to finalise a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Early Warning Mechanism, which aims to monitor and address threats of violence and criminality involving nationals of both nations. Also Read: How Man spent 24 years in prison For following friend to police station The MoU, initially proposed five years ago in response to attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, is expected to be signed by March 2025 during the visit of South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation to Nigeria.
Reading the joint communiqué, South African Minister Ronald Lamola stressed the urgency of implementing the mechanism to curb future incidents. The two nations also adopted a unified stance on the escalating Middle East crisis, calling for an immediate ceasefire and a return to diplomatic negotiations. They emphasized the importance of adhering to international humanitarian laws and protecting civilians. In addition, Nigerian President Bola Tinubu called for a strategic partnership between the two countries to promote economic integration and shared prosperity, with the goal of accelerating growth across the African continent.
The Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission continues to serve as a platform for strengthening bilateral ties and addressing mutual concerns, with both countries reiterating their commitment to fostering peace and development in Africa.
BY MICHAEL A. G. IBOH
