PRESS RELEASE

Following successful conclusion of the 9th Bi-National Commission of South Africa and Nigeria meeting in Pretoria, South Africa, which was elevated to the level of heads of state, both countries have agreed on issuing 10-year visas to business persons, academics and frequent travelers.

The agreement was reached in a meeting co-chaired by President Muhammadu Buhari and President Cyril Ramaphosa of South Africa, which was the first time both presidents would preside since the Bi-National Commission was elevated.

The decision was taken to encourage more people-to-people contacts among  citizens of both countries and further strengthen socio-cultural, economic and political relations.

At the meeting held at the Union Buildings, Presidential Palace of South Africa, the two presidents agreed on early warning signals to nip violence in the bud before it escalates, while taking into consideration the need to share more intelligence and promote stronger partnership in security.

Both countries also agreed to re-establish the consular forum, which is a structured arrangement where both governments meet regularly, at least twice in a year, to discuss welfare of citizens.

Nigerian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mrs Geoffrey Onyeama and South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mrs Naledi Pandor, signed  the minutes of the 9th session of Bi-National Commission.

Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President

(Media & Publicity)