News in brief:
– The 11th Bi-National Commission meeting between Nigeria and South Africa holds the potential for strengthening agricultural trade through the Advisory Council.
– It can foster collaborations in farming technology, production, and sustainability to benefit both nations to boost food security, create jobs, and enhance mutual prosperity.
One of the offshoots of the 11th Bi-National Commission meeting between Nigeria and South Africa was the operationalisation of the Advisory Council to boost Trade and Investments.
Both President Bola Tinubu and President Cyril Ramaphosa participated in the Nigeria-South Africa Business Roundtable during the much-talked-about Cape Town meeting. However, the major highlight of the discussions has been that ‘qualifying Nigerian business people can get a five-year multiple-entry visa.’
Besides the visa talks, this advisory council could unlock the agricultural trade potential of both countries. Nigeria already has several South African mega businesses including MTN, DSTV, and Protea Hotels by Marriott. However, both countries could see the explosion of food processors and primary producers if the agricultural sector is allowed to occupy a prominent place in future discussions.
President Ramaphosa mentioned during the meeting that there is a need to diversify trade relations to move beyond oil and gas dependency. The food production industry is a good place to focus on.
With agriculture being a key economic driver, this council can facilitate knowledge exchange, joint ventures, and investments in farming technology and practices.
South Africa, known for its advanced agricultural infrastructure and expertise in horticulture, livestock, and agribusiness, can collaborate with Nigeria to improve yield, quality, and sustainability.
On the other hand, Nigeria’s vast arable land and growing demand for diversified food production create an ideal market for South African agricultural technology and investments.
This partnership could also encourage the rise of food processors and primary producers in both countries, creating jobs and reducing reliance on imported food products.
By diversifying trade relations beyond oil and gas, as noted by President Ramaphosa, agricultural trade could provide a more sustainable and equitable growth path.
For example, Nigeria can export raw materials such as cocoa and cashew nuts to South Africa for processing, while importing specialised agricultural products like wine, fruits, and processed food. Joint ventures in areas such as irrigation, pest control, and climate-smart agriculture could further strengthen productivity and resilience to climate change, benefiting both nations.
The five-year multiple-entry visa for qualifying Nigerian businesspeople could further stimulate agricultural trade and investment. This initiative simplifies cross-border collaboration, allowing Nigerian and South African businesses to establish long-term partnerships.
Such accessibility can lead to the exchange of innovative farming techniques, the establishment of joint research projects, and the co-development of export strategies for international markets. With the right focus, agriculture can become a cornerstone of Nigeria-South Africa trade relations, enhancing food security, economic diversification, and mutual prosperity.
It is also crucial to note that some political commentators believe that the partnership could be a way to encourage Nigeria to decide positively on its BRICS membership.
