In a significant move to strengthen ties between South Africa and Nigeria, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced on Tuesday that Nigerian tourists can now apply for a visa without the need to submit their passports. The announcement was made during the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, attended by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The simplified visa process is part of South Africa’s broader effort to make travel and business interactions between the two nations more seamless.
President Ramaphosa highlighted that the revised procedures aim to foster economic collaboration and enhance tourism. One of the key features of the new system is the introduction of five-year multiple-entry visas for qualifying Nigerian businesspeople.
“Our efforts to create a favourable environment include simplifying the visa process for Nigerian businesspeople travelling to South Africa. Qualifying individuals are now eligible for a five-year multiple-entry visa,” Ramaphosa stated.
The South African President also reiterated his country’s commitment to removing barriers to investment and addressing challenges faced by companies operating across the two nations. He emphasized that the deep historical ties and friendship between Nigeria and South Africa provide a solid platform for meaningful economic cooperation.
“As we marked 30 years of diplomatic relations, we saw a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a solid foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation,” Ramaphosa said.
The Bi-National Commission serves as a platform for advancing partnerships in trade, investment, and other critical areas. The new visa reforms are expected to bolster business exchanges and tourism, further cementing the relationship between Africa’s two largest economies.
President Tinubu commended the initiative, expressing optimism about the positive impact it would have on trade and people-to-people interactions. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a partnership that drives mutual growth and prosperity for their nations.
This development marks another milestone in the collaborative efforts between Nigeria and South Africa to enhance diplomatic and economic relations.
