Parliament's Presiding Officers will today host their Nigerian counterparts as part of the marking of the tenth anniversary of the bi-national commission (BNC) between South Africa and Nigeria.
The BNC was established in October 1999 and provides a framework for collaboration between the two countries to maximise the potential for development in South Africa and Nigeria and Africa as a whole.
Nigeria, which gained independence from Britain in October 1960, is the most populous country in Africa and is regarded as West Africa's economic powerhouse. Petroleum plays a major role in the economy – Nigeria is the 12th largest producer of petroleum in the world and petroleum accounts for around 40% of its gross domestic products (GDP).
Nigeria offered pre-democratic South Africa significant support in the struggle against apartheid. Diplomatic relations were established with South Africa in 1994. Before 1999 only four South African companies operated in Nigeria but currently there are more than 100. The major South African investments have been in telecommunications but there are also investments in the banking, property, retail, and entertainment and fast food sectors.
Since the establishment of the BNC, some 41 memoranda of understanding have been signed or are under consideration in areas ranging from education, arts and culture, mutual legal assistance in criminal matters to mining, geology exploration and power generation.
Nigeria's Vice President Dr Goodluck Jonathan and Speaker of Nigeria's House of Representatives Mr Dimeji Bankole lead the Nigerian delegation visiting Parliament on 28 and 29 October.
The Nigerian delegation will hold discussions with representatives from Parliament’s Select and Portfolio Committees on Trade and Industry, Defence and Military Veterans, Police, International relations and Cooperation and Women, Youth and Children.
The visit to Parliament aims to consolidate relations between the two Parliaments and to share experiences about Parliament's oversight over Government and its facilitation of public participation in lawmaking and oversight. It is part of activities organised by the states of both countries to mark the tenth anniversary of the BNC. These include round-tables involving the media, civil society organisations, academics, women, the youth and business. Nigeria is scheduled to host activities from 12 to 14 November.
Issued by: Parliament of South Africa
28 October 2009
Source: Parliament of South Africa (http://www.parliament.gov.za)
