PRETORIA – President Cyril Ramaphosa highlighted expanding business opportunities and global governance reform during bilateral talks with Nigerian President Bola Tinubu Tuesday, marking 30 years of diplomatic relations between Africa’s largest economies.

Ramaphosa announced simplified visa processes for Nigerian business travelers and tourists, including five-year multiple entry visas for qualifying business people and passport-free tourist visa applications.

“Nigeria is South Africa’s largest trading partner in West Africa. However, there is much more opportunity for growth,” Ramaphosa said at the 11th Bi-National Commission meeting.

The South African president emphasized both nations’ roles in reforming global institutions, particularly the UN Security Council, while praising Nigeria’s conflict resolution efforts as ECOWAS chair.

Ramaphosa also highlighted South Africa’s G20 presidency, pledging to prioritize African development and Global South challenges during its term.

The meeting aims to strengthen cooperation across multiple sectors, building on existing investments by South African companies in Nigeria and Nigerian businesses in South Africa.

Key discussions focused on removing investment constraints, improving business environments in both nations, and leveraging the African Continental Free Trade Area for increased trade.