The National President of the Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce, Industry, Mines, and Agriculture, Dele Oye, said they are partnering with South Africa to strengthen ties and harness the collective economic potential of Nigeria and South Africa.
In a statement on Sunday, Oye who said this when he visited the South African High Commissioner to Nigeria, Thamsanqa Mseleku, in Abuja, added that the partnership would drive growth and prosperity in the countries and on the African continent.
Established in 1960, NACCIMA is the umbrella organisation for various affiliate member chambers of commerce within Nigeria.
Oye said the visit was to explore avenues to collaborate and share resources, leveraging their diverse cultural and socioeconomic strengths.
He said, “A sustained partnership between Nigeria and South Africa holds immense promise for both nations and the continent as a whole which is the reason for this visit. We believe that by combining our resources, expertise, and innovation, we can unlock new opportunities for economic growth and development.” He said.
According to the NACCIMA boss, the discussions during the symbolic meeting centered on the establishment of strategic public-private partnerships that would promote innovation, technology transfer, and investment. “Such partnerships are instrumental in catalyzing economic diversification, creating jobs, and driving industrialization.”
Oye noted that the two countries can potentially become economic powerhouses on the continent.
“South Africa and Nigeria share a common history both have struggled against apartheid and colonialism. They have a shared history of liberation movements that fought for the freedom and dignity of their people. Today, despite their diverse cultural and socioeconomic differences, they stand as beacons of hope for the black race and Africa. It is, therefore, imperative that they collaborate, share resources, and work towards the development of Africa.”
According to him, the visit indicated a strong desire to foster a profitable relationship between Nigeria and South Africa.
“This relationship can be leveraged towards catalyzing innovations and creativity among the youth and women. It can also be used to move our people out of poverty by leveraging public-private partnerships. The relationship between Nigeria and South Africa has the potential to be a litmus test for African unity and solidarity. The importance of this visit cannot be overemphasized, as it signifies a step towards building the resilience, prosperity, and connectivity of black African nations.”
