Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has moved to reinforce relations with South Africa following the re-election of President Cyril Ramaphosa, hailing the peaceful democratic process and calling for closer partnership between the two regional powers.
In a statement released today, President Tinubu extended “warm congratulations” to Ramaphosa “on your re-election as President of South Africa.”
He also praised “the people of South Africa on the peaceful and successful conduct of the general election.”
Tinubu expressed his desire to “strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and South Africa as strategic partners in Africa for the overall advancement of the continent.”
The Nigerian leader’s remarks come just days after Ramaphosa secured another term in the May 2024 national polls. While there were some logistical issues reported, African Union observers declared the elections were conducted freely and fairly.
Tinubu’s overture as an attempt to reset relations and boost economic and political cooperation between Africa’s two largest economies after years of tensions under previous administrations.
“Nigeria and South Africa have a very important role to play in shaping the future of the African continent,” said Elizabeth Owolabi, director of the Africa Policy Institute in Lagos. “Improved collaboration between them could help drive initiatives on economic integration, peace and security.”
During his first term, President Ramaphosa pushed for restructuring of South Africa’s struggling state corporations and implementing anti-corruption reforms. He has also advocated for accelerating continental free trade.
President Tinubu, who took office in May 2023 after a closely contested election, has prioritized policies to tackle insecurity, revamp infrastructure and promote economic diversification away from oil dependence.
Chief Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President, Media and Publicity, in a statement on Saturday, said the president also congratulated the people of South Africa on the peaceful and successful conduct of the general election.
As he embarks on a second term, Ramaphosa will likely welcome support from the Nigerian leader on continental initiatives.
