Welcome to the December edition of the Lagos to Jozi Jollof x Amapiano Diary, where we explore the relations between Nigeria and South Africa. Starting in early 2024, we have seen significant developments between these two African powerhouses in various areas, including the economy, migration, sports, music, and governance. We have also observed the key forces shaping the ties between Nigeria and South Africa: their people and governments. Join me as I review the recent events influencing the relationship between these nations.
South Africa and Nigeria At A Glance in 2024
Since 1994, Nigeria and South Africa have maintained continuous diplomatic ties, marking three decades in 2024 of uninterrupted partnership, cooperation, and mutual engagement between both nations. 2024 was a full year with good highs and few not-so-good lows. Nigeria and South Africa demonstrated bilateral solidarity by releasing a joint statement in Accra regarding Sudan. Ups and downs of Tinubunomics while South Africa’s sizzling Jollofinas and Nigeria’s Yorùbá demons and Igbo Ninjas seize the stage. Anticipating an end to Area Boys and Kabu Kabu diplomacy as the appointed, qualified, and professional diplomats Ajayi and Bashir tactically lead Nigeria’s foreign policy in South Africa. West African nations of Ghana and Nigeria continue their heated debate in South Africa over who cooks the best Jollof Rice.
At the same time, untamed killings of Nigerians in South Africa by rogue cops dotted the year, while the homegrown beats of Amapiano caused more tension for Naija musical brainiacs. Further afield, Nigeria Vs South Africa was keenly contested in every game. Tinubu fulminates about Nigeria’s reputation while South Africa goes on a national identity search with Chidimma. Meanwhile, Soyinka fired warning shots at South Africa. Nigeria shows interest in joining the Big Boys club. Ambassador Yusuf also shared his 4D foreign policy vision, while Giwa-Osagie dreamt of a fair trade balance between Nigeria and South Africa. Southee visa wahala gets some relief for qualifying Nigerian business people, and we look at the shun or no shun at Cyril’s inauguration. Not leaving the ‘bad boys’ of Eastern Cape and the bad cops of Joburg. Lastly, we look at the highlights of the recently concluded South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission, which was held in Cape Town.
A Call to Order
South Africa and Nigeria, Africa’s two leading nations, must strengthen their economic, cultural, political, and social ties for the continent’s benefit. Experts emphasize that Africa’s advancement depends on cooperation between these nations. President Ramaphosa recently highlighted that mutual understanding between South Africa and Nigeria is essential for Africa’s development.
With that being said, let’s explore the evolving relationship between these African giants.
Cooperating for Africa’s Peace: From Es-spirit-de Corp to making joint statements
Nigeria’s Chief of Defence Staff, Gen. Christopher Musa, met with his South African counterpart, Gen. Rudzani Maphwanya, in Pretoria to strengthen military cooperation. The meeting focused on regional defence strategies and knowledge sharing between Africa’s two major military powers. Senior SANDF officials participated in the discussions, and Musa received cannon gun salutes during his visit.
In a joint statement, both nations called for an immediate ceasefire in Sudan during a meeting between their foreign ministers in Ghana. They expressed concern over civilian casualties and displacement while pledging to enhance bilateral relations and support humanitarian aid access.
Tinubunomics And The Surprising Economic Shifts
The African economic giant’s baton has shifted from the Naira to the Rand. From October 2023, the IMF hinted that South Africa’s GDP will overtake Nigeria to become Africa’s biggest economy. In December 2023, when it was officially announced, Nigeria ($253b) went from being the biggest to becoming the fourth biggest economy in Africa. Overtaken by South Africa ($373b), Egypt ($347b) and Algeria ($267b), according to the IMF World Economic Outlook. On BRICS -hopefully, in 2026, Brics may become BRINKS+ with Nigeria’s membership. In other news, Punch Newspaper reports that Oppenheimer has bought GZ Nigeria.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s dollar millionaires declined by 16.3 per cent in 2023, according to Henley and Partners’ 2024 Africa Wealth Report. The number dropped from 9,800 to 8,200, marking the largest decline among Africa’s top 10 wealthiest nations. Over the past decade, Nigeria saw a 45 per cent decrease in millionaires, from 15,000 in 2013 to 8,200 in 2023. This decline is attributed to Naira devaluation, with exchange rates moving from N160/$ in 2013 to N890/$ in 2023.
Addressing The Ongoing Situation of Nigerian Citizens Living in South Africa
A protest march unfolded in December 2023, highlighting growing tensions between Nigerian nationals and South African authorities. A group of distressed Nigerian protesters marched to the regional police headquarters in Johannesburg to express their outrage over the tragic death of a fellow Nigerian citizen while in police custody. This incident has intensified concerns about the treatment of Nigerians in South Africa, particularly regarding extrajudicial killings. Alarming statistics reveal a disturbing pattern: between 2009 and 2021, 127 Nigerian nationals lost their lives in South Africa, with law enforcement officers being directly responsible for 13 of these deaths. The demonstration underscores the urgent need to address the ongoing issues of police brutality and the safety of Nigerian nationals in South Africa.
In related news, in April this year, Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State appealed to South African authorities to stop the harassment of Nigerians in South Africa. While meeting with South African Consul-General Prof Bobby J Moroe in Osogbo, he emphasized that profiling Nigerians as criminals threatens relations between both nations while describing the attitude as “quite disturbing”. The Consul-General acknowledged these concerns and assured his government’s commitment to harmonious relationships between the countries. Both parties discussed establishing an MOU between Osun State and Gauteng province, focusing on agro-processing and mining collaborations. Gauteng, contributing 33.9% to South Africa’s GDP, is known for gold production and agro-industry.
Baes Beyond Borders: Between The Sizzling Jollofinas, Naija Cash-Sucking Women, Yoruba Demons & The Igbo Ninjas?
On the entertainment lighter side, we witnessed the televised cross-cultural relationship show between 12 Nigerian men looking for South African love on Showmax’s Bae Beyond Borders. The Nigerian men affirmed that South African ladies bring the sizzle they crave. Similarly, Enhle Mbali Mlotshwa, a 35-year-old South African actress and a 2023 Africa Movie Academy Award (AMAA) nominee, expressed her love for Nigerian men while also declaring the Nigerian Jollof the best.
Popular South African radio talk show host and reality TV star Malibongwe Gumede has slammed Nigerian ladies for their love for money. According to the presenter, Nigerian women go into romantic affairs primarily to extort money from their men. In related news, South Africa has officially claimed the title of having the biggest Nyansh globally, while Tacha announces her preference for South African men over Nigerians.
Amapiano Tensions: Afrobeats to Amapiano – How Music United & Disunited Nigeria and South Africa
This story is about sounds and struggles – a tale of two African giants. Less than a year back, Ice Prince Zamani called Nigeria-South Africa tensions a sibling rivalry, comparing it to a family feud between brothers who ultimately have each other’s backs. In an unexpected twist, both nations joined forces to ridicule Meek Mill, the American rapper, when he questioned how his songs reached African audiences. This incident showcased how quickly these two powerhouse nations could unite against external criticism despite their own differences.
From the soundscape, in November 2023, Pulse Nigeria listed the top 10 Nigeria and South Africa Afrobeats collaborations based on impact, popularity, and quality of the collaboration. Entertainment and Media Outlook 2023 – 2027 Report released by PwC predicts that Nigeria will experience the most substantial growth in Entertainment and Media (E&M) revenue from 2022 to 2027, while South Africa’s E&M market growth is expected to outpace the global average.
An Amapiano song has left South African and Nigerian netizens in tense online spats. Meanwhile, Nigeria leads in musical hits; South Africa rakes in the streaming cash. The Nigerian music industry is still the largest on the continent. South Africa has remained the most profitable from streaming.
9 – Zero and Power Plays: Nigeria and South Africa’s Political Chess Match
In sports, South African women’s hockey players dominated their Nigerian counterparts with a resounding 9-0 victory and secured their spot in the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The match showcased South Africa’s superior hockey skills and tactical prowess, leaving Nigeria with a devastating defeat. However, the tables turned in women’s football when Nigeria’s National Women’s Football team, known as the Super Falcons, clinched a crucial 1-0 victory over South Africa and kept their Paris 2024 Olympics qualification hopes alive.
The sporting rivalry between these nations took an unexpected turn when the Nigerian Football Federation (NFF) raised serious concerns about the treatment of their women’s national team during their stay in South Africa. The NFF formally accused the South African Football Association (SAFA) of abandonment after the match, lack of provision of security, transport, and inadequate facilities for the Super Falcons. These allegations have created diplomatic tension between these two influential African football governing bodies, potentially affecting future sporting relations.
Diplomacy: Yussuf’s Plans and South Africa’s Interest in Nigeria
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is crucial in coordinating Nigeria’s extensive network of 109 foreign missions, directly influencing its capacity to execute the nation’s international agenda. The ministry operates under the newly crafted ‘4D Diplomacy’ strategic framework, which focuses on four key pillars: development, democracy, demography, and diaspora engagement. The Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Yusuf Maitama Tuggar’s ambitious vision aims to elevate Nigeria “to the pinnacle of global and regional decision-making”, emphasizing that all diplomatic missions must align their efforts to attract foreign investment into Nigeria. Notably, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Kalu, has expressed serious concerns about the persistent trade imbalance in Nigeria-South Africa bilateral relations, highlighting the need for more balanced economic partnerships.
The South African government prioritizes maintaining strong business ties with Nigeria. The South African Mission in Nigeria actively works to foster partnerships between South African and Nigerian business sectors. Business Forums exist where entrepreneurs from both nations gather to explore trade opportunities. Recently, President Cyril Ramaphosa confirmed his country’s interest in Nigeria.
Chairman of the Nigeria – South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Osayaba Giwa-Osagie (SAN), emphasizes the need for balanced trade relations between both nations. He highlights education, technology, and innovation as key growth drivers, urging collaboration to create a knowledge-based economy. He advocates for academic exchanges and joint research initiatives to address challenges.
As two Nigerian Universities, Bowen and the University of Lagos, celebrate thirty years of uninterrupted partnership, cooperation, and mutual engagement between Nigeria and South Africa, Professor Bobby Moroe, the Consul-General of South Africa to Nigeria, noted at both events that Nigeria and South Africa share a common vision for Africa’s political and economic integration.
Wole Soyinka’s Warning Shot to South Africa
Nobel Laureate Professor Wole Soyinka has sharply criticized the South African government’s confrontational attitude towards Nigeria and its citizens, which he says damages the fraternal relationship between both nations’ progressives.
Speaking at “An Evening with Professor Wole Soyinka at 90“, organized by The Metropolitan Club in Lagos, Soyinka highlighted past incidents where South African officials sabotaged Nigerian activists’ efforts during Abacha’s regime. He recalled how a planned conference was derailed when South African representatives mishandled their visa processing.
“I have suffered humiliation at the hands of South African immigration,” Soyinka noted, challenging South African progressives to address these issues.
The evening featured intellectual discourse and revelations from the accomplished writer. Soyinka discussed his life journey, from founding the Pyrates Confraternity to winning the Nobel Prize. Notable attendees included Anyaoku and Fayemi.
Regional Rice Dish Rivalry Spreads to Southern Africa
From the rhythms of Amapiano and now to the flavours of Jollof, cultural ties weave a landscape of shared experiences that transcend borders. The 2024 Jollof Wars South Africa Competition emerged as a vibrant cultural initiative spearheaded by Nigerian citizen diplomat Adetunji Omotola, bringing together the African diaspora community. The culinary showdown took place at the prestigious Breadbox Bakery and Studio in Midrand, where teams representing Ghana and Nigeria engaged in an intense cooking battle.
In the bustling atmosphere of Breadbox Kitchen Studio, amidst the symphony of clanging pots and aromatic spices, Deborah Safoa Darkey emerged victorious. A mother of three from Ghana’s Eastern region and co-proprietor of Love and Joy (L&J) restaurant in Pretoria, she clinched first place with 234.5 points out of 280. Former champion Florence Ansah (2021 winner) secured second place with 234 points, while Jollof Cafe’s Bolaji Olasukanmi and Jody Watley claimed third with 229 points, followed by Chef Morayo with 216 points.
Adding star power to the event, South African culinary icon Lucia Mthiyane made a guest appearance, preparing biryani alongside the competing chefs. The distinguished panel of judges included renowned food anthropologist Anna Trapido (PhD), celebrated Nigerian Chef Omor Oyebola (known as Chef Omo), talent manager Mavis Anim Mensah-Pah, and respected Africanist Kennedy Khabo Mabe.
The Nigerian contestants showcased their expertise with rich tomato-based sauces and aromatic spices. At the same time, their Ghanaian counterparts stayed true to traditional cooking methods, incorporating smoked fish, dried crayfish powder, and corned beef in their broths.
Deborah Safoa Darkey’s winning creation from L&J restaurant featured spicy jollof with tender goat meat and shito sauce. Chef Florence Ansah secured second place, followed by Nigerian teams. Chef Morayo Olonade of Morayo Feast, Sunninghill, placed fourth with her flavorful sauce combining tomatoes, peppers, aromatics, and Maggi cubes.
In his closing remarks, Adetunji Omotola, the mastermind behind the Jollof War Competition, expressed his gratitude:
“Heartfelt congratulations to Deborah Safoe Darkey on her remarkable victory. A special acknowledgement to Fikayo Idowu from Standard Bank for planting the initial seed that blossomed into this vision of introducing Jollof Rice to a broader South African audience. Chukwunonyelum Mpho Omotola of Mastercard Foundation, and Bukky Enuha representing MJF Travel“
“I extend my appreciation to BreadBox Bakery Studios and the African Portal. I also thank LagosToJozi.com for their pioneering online coverage of the Jollof Wars Competition in early October. Our culinary sponsors included Yumm Foods by Mandlakazi and Absie Pantshwa, Florence Catering, and media partners Newzroom, Channel Africa, 919.com. Dr Anna Trapido facilitated coverage through TimesLive, 702 FM, and Maverick“, Adetunji stated.
The celebration included traditional African snacks and South African wines. Mark your calendars for the 2025 Johannesburg Jollof War in Sandton on Africa Day, 25 May.
Nigeria’s Reputation & South Africa’s Search for National Identity in a Nigerian beauty queen
Despite Nigerians dominating the 100 Most Influential Africans list of 2023, Nigerians’ international reputation continues to face significant challenges. Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu has strongly condemned the “blanket stereotyping” of Nigerians as cybercriminals, highlighting the need to address these harmful misconceptions that affect the nation’s global image and its citizens’ opportunities worldwide.
Meanwhile, in 2024, Chidimma Vannesa Onwe Adetshina, a 23-year-old Nigerian-South African, found herself at the centre of a heated controversy when she was forced to withdraw from the Miss South Africa pageant. Her withdrawal came after intense public pressure from South Africans who claimed she wasn’t “South African enough” to participate in the competition. This incident sparked a broader national debate about identity, citizenship, and belonging in South Africa, prompting serious discussions about what defines South African nationality in the modern context.
In a remarkable turn of events, Chidimma transformed this setback into an opportunity by embracing her Nigerian heritage. She went on to become Miss Nigeria 2024, proudly representing Nigeria in the prestigious Miss Universe competition. Her journey culminated in an outstanding achievement when she secured the runner-up position as Miss Oceania and Africa, demonstrating resilience and proving that identity transcends geographical boundaries.
“We must tell our own stories as Africans. I was very delighted to see Chidimma reach the very last stage that Mia and Nompumelelo reached in Miss SA. Standing there in Mexico with Miss Denmark as they were about to announce the winner put Chidimma , Nigeria and Africa on the global stage. I salute all the African ladies who competed and pray that each of them reach their fullest potential”, stated Adetunji Omotola, an African Affairs commentor.
Bad cops, Bad boys and Nigeria, South Africa’s Drug Menace
In April, IOL reported that eight Nigerian nationals were arrested in Kimberley after attacking police officers and damaging SAPS vehicles. The incident occurred when police were searching for a Nigerian national suspected of drug possession. One suspect was arrested for drugs, three for public violence, and four others for damaging police property at the station. Northern Cape police commissioner Koliswa Otola condemned the incident.
A 43-year-old Nigerian, Ebuka Muoka, from Obosi, Anambra State, was killed by South African Police in Danielskuil, Northern Cape. This incident occurred shortly after South Africa enacted legislation against hate crimes on May 8, 2024.
According to NUSA’s statement, police officers stormed Muoka’s residence, forcing his wife to leave with their child. Despite finding no drugs during their search, they took him to a waste dump, where he met his tragic end. The police have refused to issue a statement or allow the family to file a case. This incident follows a pattern of police violence against Nigerians in the Northern Cape, including the recent death of Chika Aniuno in Johannesburg.
“We are calling for justice for the deceased and protection of all individuals’ rights, regardless of nationality. We offer our deepest condolences to the bereaved family and stand with the Nigerian community in Northern Cape. We acknowledge Mayor Williams’ visit and support her call for unity.”, NUSA stated in their statement.
Meanwhile, South Africa and Nigeria continue to battle widespread drug abuse and trafficking issues across their territories. The Nigeria Customs Service, Tincan Island Command, intercepted cocaine, arms, and ammunition worth N4.3bn, announced Comptroller General Adewale Adeniyi during a press briefing on Thursday. The seized contraband from South Africa and Canada included 56.39kg of cocaine valued at N2.3bn and 955kg of Colorado Indica worth N1.9bn.
Adeniyi highlighted the successful collaboration with NDLEA in border protection. He noted that the seizures revealed criminal networks attempting to bypass agency protocols. “These challenges require enhanced cooperation to secure our borders,” Adeniyi stated. NDLEA Director Marwa, represented by spokesperson Babafemi, praised the interagency cooperation, emphasizing the security of both airports and seaports.
Nigeria, South Africa relations: Snub or No Snub At Cyril’s Inauguration
A Facebook video claims South African President Cyril Ramaphosa snubbed Nigerian President Bola Tinubu during his June 19, 2024 inauguration. The footage shows Ramaphosa greeting front-row guests while Tinubu stands behind.
However, AfricaCheck’s investigation revealed this claim is false. SABC’s live stream shows Ramaphosa shaking Tinubu’s hand. O’tega Ogra, Tinubu’s media assistant, explained that the front row was reserved for South African royalty, while visiting presidents were seated in the second row, following standard protocol.
Nigerian Community in South Africa Gets New Leadership
The Nigeria Union South Africa (NUSA) concluded its 2024 Elective Congress on December 7, 2024, in Witbank, Mpumalanga. Barr. Nwobi Ikechukwu Smart was elected president, leading a new executive team for the next three years.
The new leadership pledges to focus on unity, welfare support, legal aid, and skill development for Nigerians in South Africa.
The elected team includes a list of 12 officials with their positions, which can be found here. The diverse team combines experience with fresh insights across key areas. Their inauguration in March 2025 will mark a new chapter for NUSA, which is dedicated to uniting and supporting Nigerians in South Africa.
Marketing of Nigeria’s Precious Metals in South Africa
In November 2024, Dele Alake, Nigeria’s Solid Minerals Development Minister, invited South African investors to explore opportunities in Nigeria’s mining sector during the International Investment Forum & Roadshow in South Africa for the Solid Minerals Sector in Nigeria.
The Minister, represented by Dr Mary Ogbe, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Solid Minerals Development, highlighted President Tinubu’s focus on solid minerals development and outlined his Seven-Point Agenda, which has attracted global attention and increased investments. The ministry has implemented reforms, including the Electronic Mining Cadastral System for streamlined licensing and the Nigeria Minerals Decision Support System for data access.
Several companies showed interest in investing, with partnerships expected to be formalized at the upcoming Nigeria Mining Week from November 18-20, 2024, which will host South African mining companies and financial institutions.
APC + ANC: Collabo of Africa’s Mega Parties And Monyela’s SA Vs Naija Social Media ‘Mirage’
South Africa and Nigeria’s relationship has no doubt faced tensions, though officials maintain strong bilateral ties persist. While social media conflicts escalated, including ride-sharing cancellations between both nations, diplomatic leaders emphasize these don’t reflect majority views. South Africa’s Clayton Monyela affirms the relationship remains “strong, cordial, and mutually beneficial,” citing President Tinubu’s Cape Town visit as evidence.
In other news, the African National Congress (ANC) of South Africa and the All Progressives Congress (APC) of Nigeria held a bilateral meeting on September 12, 2024, strengthening their nations’ ties. The meeting focused on political alignment, economic cooperation, cultural exchange, and security initiatives. This partnership aims to advance peace and regional integration while promoting African unity and prosperity.
The meeting was attended by ANC representatives, led by Comrade Nomvula Mokonyane, and APC Nigerian Community representatives, headed by Hon. Oyekanmi Oluwatoyin. During the meeting, several crucial topics were addressed, including the historical relationship between the two parties and their shared anti-apartheid struggle, current social relations and community tensions, potential trade and economic opportunities, as well as security and immigration concerns. To address these issues, both parties agreed on implementing various solutions such as joint community initiatives, political education campaigns, neighborhood watch programs, and community integration strategies. The meeting concluded with a mutual commitment from both the ANC and APC representatives to foster better understanding and cooperation between their communities. The minutes of the meeting between the ANC and APC-SA can be found here, while their joint statement can be downloaded here.
The Big Boys’ Club; Increasing Trade Volume; & An End to S/An Visa Wahala?
Nigeria has expressed her interest in joining the G20 club of big economies. President Cyril Ramaphosa has also pledged South Africa’s support for Nigeria’s bid to join the G20 group of major economies, calling Nigeria a “valued sister country.” At the launch of South Africa’s G20 presidency in Cape Town, Ramaphosa emphasized Africa’s growing importance, noting that the continent needs more representation with the African Union’s recent admission. Currently, only South Africa and the AU represent Africa in the G20.
In other news, the Consul-General of South Africa to Nigeria, Ambassador Bobby Moroe, has announced that Nigerians will now receive their visas in seven days instead of six months. The announcement came during a meeting in Lagos.
Meanwhile, trade volume between the two nations in 2022 was $72.1 billion in Nigeria’s favour, mainly from rubber, petroleum, and crude oil, while South Africa gained $447 million.
The Nigerian Good Samaritans; South African Xeno Bolt war and the Nigerian revenge;
A significant incident occurred in July when a young boy was refused bus transportation. Yet, little attention was given to the nationality of the good samaritans who drove him near his residence. According to Timeslive, Golden Arrow Bus Services subsequently issued an apology and provided complimentary rides to Lifalethu Mbasana, 11, who spent eight hours walking home after misplacing his bus ticket. The driver, subsequently suspended, abandoned him without his siblings. The tired youngster rested under a bridge before receiving assistance from kind individuals who ensured his safe return home. During his long walk home, a group of Nigerian citizens assisted the young boy by transporting him to Mitchells Plain.
“He says that Nigerian people gave him a lift to Mitchells Plain,” Mbasana said. This compassionate gesture from strangers demonstrates that kindness exists within everyone.
Meanwhile, a series of fake ride requests targeting Nigerian Bolt drivers in Lagos and Abuja caused significant disruption in the ride-hailing service. The incident lasted for a week and originated from South African Bolt users who orchestrated a coordinated prank campaign. The underlying cause was a controversy surrounding a Nigerian student’s participation in the Miss South Africa 2024 pageant. Nigerian Bolt users launched counter-pranks in response, escalating the situation into what became known as the “Bolt War.” The fake ride requests resulted in substantial financial losses for the affected drivers, ultimately forcing the platform to implement restrictions on cross-country ride bookings to prevent further incidents.
Final Notes on Nigeria and South Africa: The African Twin Titans
As Africa’s twin titans, Nigeria and South Africa stand at a crossroads of opportunity and challenge. Their dynamic partnership, spanning diplomacy, economics, and culture, continues to shape the continent’s trajectory. While obstacles persist—from economic shifts to social tensions—the resilience of their bond shines through in joint peacekeeping efforts and cultural exchanges.
Looking ahead, the potential for deeper collaboration looms large. Can these nations harness their combined strengths to propel Africa onto the global stage? The answer lies in governmental actions and the connections forged between their peoples.
As we witness the ebb and flow of this pivotal relationship, one thing remains clear: the future of Africa is intimately tied to the synergy between Nigeria and South Africa. It’s time for citizens and leaders alike to embrace this reality, fostering dialogue and cooperation that can unlock unprecedented growth and influence. What role will you play in strengthening this crucial African alliance? Drop a comment below.
@lagos jozi thak you for your detailed time-line. However, NUSA inauguration will be in match not feburary.
Modified!
Thank you for the correction Emeka and here is wishing you a peaceful 2025 ahead.