Nigeria: The Awakening Sleeping Giant

By Godson Azu

Nigeria and South Africa share robust and strategic diplomatic ties, rooted in historical solidarity, particularly Nigeria’s unwavering support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle. This year marks 30 years of formal diplomatic relations, established in 1994, a partnership that has grown to include political stability, economic development, trade, and social mobility. South Africa has significantly benefited from Nigeria’s demographics, leveraging investments in telecommunications, retail, and e-commerce, while Nigeria exports professional labor, creating an imbalance in trade relations. The Bi-National Commission (BNC), a critical platform for managing bilateral engagements, reached its 11th session in Cape Town on December 2, 2024, co-chaired by Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Bola Tinubu. Discussions included visa facilitation and enhancing Nigerian business presence in South Africa, underscoring Nigeria’s position as a vital trade partner, accounting for 64% of South Africa’s total trade with West Africa. Despite occasional challenges like xenophobic tensions and trade disputes, both nations remain committed to advancing African economic integration and reforming global governance systems.

Nigeria’s Bid for G20 and BRICS Membership: At the 11th South Africa-Nigeria BNC, Nigeria formally sought South Africa’s support for its bids to join the G20 and BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa). Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, highlighted South Africa’s critical role, especially as it chairs the G20 in 2024. While South Africa has expressed interest in amplifying Africa’s global voice, it has not yet made a definitive public endorsement of Nigeria’s aspirations. South Africa’s cautious stance on BRICS expansion, despite supporting Ethiopia in the past, may influence its position on Nigeria’s request. Membership in G20 and BRICS is vital for Nigeria, offering opportunities to advocate for fair trade practices, debt relief, and infrastructure investments through G20 and to expand trade, secure development financing, and advance global governance reforms via BRICS.

Significance and Challenges of G20 and BRICS Membership For Nigeria and Africa, membership in the G20 and BRICS holds significant promise. Through the G20, Nigeria could influence economic policy, advocate for fairer trade, and address challenges like climate change and food security, while BRICS membership would diversify Nigeria’s economy, attract investment, and promote South-South cooperation. However, Nigeria must address critical challenges to maximize these opportunities, including strengthening governance, reducing corruption, diversifying its oil-dependent economy, and developing infrastructure in energy, transportation, and digital sectors. Navigating the internal dynamics of these groups, dominated by economies like China, Russia, and India, is also essential. Demonstrating readiness through domestic reforms and positioning itself as a reliable partner are crucial steps for Nigeria to secure these memberships and influence global decision-making. A Call for Strategic Recalibration As Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, Nigeria’s ambitions to join the G20 and BRICS align with its natural leadership role. However, realizing these aspirations requires a strategic recalibration of Nigeria’s foreign policy to project strength and leadership rather than dependence. Mr. President must lead efforts to reposition Nigeria’s image internationally, emphasizing its potential as a collaborator and advocate for African development. By investing in governance, infrastructure, and economic diversification, Nigeria can not only secure its place in these influential platforms but also champion Africa’s development agenda and amplify its voice on the global stage. This shift will transform Nigeria’s deductive diplomacy into an impactful and reflective foreign policy framework.

South Africa Leads G20, Puts Africa’s Needs First: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_2X9zecD_8E