- He stated that the move was to create a conducive environment, especially to simplify visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa
South Africa has relaxed its visa application procedure for Nigerians in what the country said will strength diplomatic ties and bolster trade between the two nations.
The new visa policy will allow Nigerians to apply for a visa without submitting passport and will also be eligible for five-year multiple entry visas.
Cyril Ramaphosa, President of South Africa, announced the development on Tuesday at the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, which President Bola Tinubu attended.
Ramaphosa disclosed that South Africa simplified its visa processes to create a conducive environment for Nigerian business people and facilitate travel to the country for tourists.
“Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple entry visa,” he said.
He also pledged South Africa’s commitment to removing constraints on greater investment and addressing the challenges faced by companies 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.
“Nigeria is host to a number of South African companies. South Africa has always been open to Nigerian business, reflected in the number of investments and operations established in this country.
“But there is much more we need to do. 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 also acknowledged the Nigerian government’s reforms to further strengthen and foster a business environment that offers assurances to investors, including from South Africa.
He said his administration will continue with its efforts to improve the ease of doing business in South Africa. We want to enable investors to operate, trade and pursue opportunities in various sectors.
“We look forward to seeing more Nigerian companies investing in South Africa,” he said.
The South African leader said Africa’s development and the challenges facing countries of the Global South would be firmly placed on the G20 agenda.
“It will be the first time the G20 Leaders’ Summit will be held on African soil. We will seek to galvanise support for the AU’s Agenda 2063 as we pursue an inclusive global agenda.
“For South Africa, it is our view that in shaping global discourse, programs should be tailored to ensure that in our societies, no one is left behind,” he said