Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has issued a powerful call for a more robust and mutually beneficial investment relationship between Nigeria and South Africa. This appeal was made during the landmark celebration of the 25th anniversary of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC), an event themed "Building Together."
A Quarter-Century of Fostering Economic Integration
The governor, represented by the Commissioner for Commerce, Trade and Investment, Folashade Ambrose-Mendebem, commended the Chamber for its 25 years of resilience and influence in promoting economic cooperation. He emphasized that the NSACC's enduring work reflects the commitment of Africa's two largest economies to achieve deeper integration.
Sanwo-Olu specifically highlighted the Chamber's pivotal role in facilitating the entry and expansion of major South African corporations into the Nigerian market. He noted that these companies have been instrumental in driving growth and development across multiple sectors of the Lagos economy.
South African Giants as Pillars of Growth in Lagos
"From telecommunications to banking, retail, entertainment, manufacturing, and logistics—South African companies have contributed significantly to Lagos’s digital infrastructure, employment creation, and competitive corporate culture," Governor Sanwo-Olu stated.
He pointed out that Lagos, as Nigeria's commercial hub, continues to host and benefit from leading firms of South African origin. These include telecommunications giant MTN, pay-TV leader MultiChoice, retail supermarket chain Shoprite, and financial services provider Stanbic IBTC. The governor acknowledged that these businesses have leveraged the Chamber's platforms for guidance and engagement.
NSACC Unveils Five-Year Plan to Deepen Bilateral Trust
In her address, the Chairman of the Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce, Dr. Ije Jidenma, reflected on the organisation's humble beginnings, describing it as "a mustard seed" that has grown substantially. She paid tribute to the foundational work of past Chamber leaders.
Looking forward, Dr. Jidenma unveiled a new five-year strategic vision designed to strengthen trust and deepen collaborative business efforts between Nigeria and South Africa. She framed the Chamber's 25-year journey as having built a "survival bridge" that has enabled trade expansion, boosted bilateral confidence, and fostered innovation.
"In these 25 years, our Chamber has fostered trade, strengthened bilateral relations, and built platforms for business to innovate, grow, and thrive," Jidenma affirmed.
The anniversary ceremony also served as an occasion to honour long-standing corporate partners. Companies such as MTN, Stanbic IBTC, and South African Airways were recognised for their sustained support and contributions to the Chamber's mission of enhancing economic ties between the two African powerhouses.
