In a significant development aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, South Africa has relaxed its visa requirements for Nigerian tourists and businesspeople.
Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President Bola Tinubu on Information and Strategy in a statement on Tuesday said President Cyril Ramaphosa made the announcement during the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) held in Cape Town.
The session was attended by President Tinubu.
President Ramaphosa revealed that Nigerian business travelers who meet the criteria will now be eligible for five-year multiple-entry visas.

Additionally, Nigerian tourists can apply for visas without the need to submit their passports physically, signaling a simplified and more efficient process.
“Our efforts to create a favorable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian businesspeople can be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa,” Ramaphosa stated.
The South African leader emphasised his country’s commitment to fostering a business-friendly environment to attract Nigerian investment.
He acknowledged the presence of numerous South African companies in Nigeria and underscored the need to address challenges impeding greater investment and collaboration.
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“As we mark 30 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we see a bright future for our relationship. Our strong bonds of friendship provide a firm foundation for more meaningful economic cooperation,” Ramaphosa said.
He also lauded Nigeria’s ongoing reforms aimed at creating a more robust business environment for investors, including those from South Africa.
President Ramaphosa highlighted South Africa’s commitment to championing Africa’s development and addressing challenges faced by the Global South.
He confirmed that these issues will be priorities during the upcoming G20 Leaders’ Summit, the first to be hosted on African soil.
“It is our view that in shaping global discourse, programs should be tailored to ensure that in our societies, no one is left behind,” Ramaphosa said, emphasising South Africa’s support for the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
The Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission was established to strengthen bilateral relations between the two African powerhouses. This year’s session not only reinforced the existing partnership but also paved the way for deeper economic and diplomatic collaboration.