In a move aimed at enhancing bilateral relations and fostering economic growth, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Tuesday that tourists from Nigeria can now apply for South African visas without submitting a passport.
This announcement was made during the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, where Nigerian President Bola Tinubu was also present.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that the simplification of visa processes would specifically benefit Nigerian businesspeople and tourists, making travel to South Africa easier.
One of the significant measures introduced is the provision of five-year multiple-entry visas for qualifying Nigerian businesspeople.
“Our efforts to create a favourable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa,” Ramaphosa said.
The South African president also reaffirmed the country’s commitment to removing barriers to greater investment between the two nations, acknowledging the challenges faced by businesses operating in both countries.
“As we mark 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we see a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a firm foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation,” he added.
Ramaphosa emphasised the significant role Nigeria plays in South Africa’s economic landscape, with many South African companies operating in Nigeria.
He noted that South Africa has always been open to Nigerian business, which is reflected in the numerous investments and operations established by Nigerian companies in South Africa.
However, Ramaphosa also acknowledged that more needs to be done to address remaining constraints on investment and to tackle challenges faced by companies.
He expressed hope that both nations would continue to remove obstacles and foster an even more robust economic partnership.
“We need to remove the remaining constraints to greater investment, just as we need to address some of the challenges that companies have experienced,” Ramaphosa said.
He also praised the Nigerian government’s ongoing reforms aimed at strengthening its business environment, which are expected to offer greater assurances to investors, including those from South Africa.
“We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa,” Ramaphosa concluded, highlighting the government’s continued efforts to improve the ease of doing business in South Africa.
The streamlined visa process is seen as a significant step in promoting stronger ties between the two countries, opening up more opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment.
Chioma Kalu