A business delegation led by the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic) has commenced the first leg of the Outward Selling Mission (OSM) in Lagos, Nigeria, with a vibrant programme of business-to-business seminars, networking platforms, and sectoral engagements. The OSM, which runs from 25–27 August in Nigeria before proceeding to Ghana, seeks to strengthen bilateral trade and investment, and create opportunities for South African companies to expand into fast-growing West African markets.
Welcoming the delegation, the Consul-General of South Africa in Lagos, and Acting High Commissioner in Nigeria, Professor Bobby J. Moroe, underscored the significance of the mission as a catalyst for deepening economic diplomacy between the two nations.
“As we convene in this vibrant economic hub, I am reminded of the immense potential our two nations share. This mission provides an opportunity for us to showcase the best of our industries and innovations, while recommitting to strengthening economic ties and forging lasting partnerships,” said Moroe.
He highlighted agriculture, digital economy, and infrastructure development as key areas of potential collaboration under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
“By leveraging the AfCFTA, with its $2.5 trillion consumer market and an estimated $3 trillion Gross Domestic Product (GDP), we can unlock new avenues for trade and investment, driving inclusive growth and job creation. Together, let us tap into the transformative power of trade to stimulate growth, generate employment, and enhance lives across our nations,” he added.
Delivering the keynote address, the Chairperson of the South Africa-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce (NSACC), Dr Ije Jidenma, welcomed the delegation and emphasised the historical, cultural, and economic ties that bind Nigeria and South Africa.
“Opportunities like this are rare, and we have to make the best of them. Nigeria and South Africa are bonded by history, geography, and a shared vision for prosperity. If we are to realise the continent’s true potential, we must work deliberately, with commitment and discipline, to harness our abundant human and natural resources,” Jidenma remarked.
She further stressed the role of business-to-business platforms as essential drivers of regional economic integration.
“Today’s engagement offers a valuable platform for mutual learning, knowledge sharing, and collaboration. The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce remains committed to being a catalyst and connector, supporting enterprise growth and promoting an enabling environment for trade and investment,” she said.
The OSM will continue in Lagos until 27 August before moving to Ghana, further reaffirming the dtic’s commitment to market diversification, deepening regional partnerships, and promoting intra-African trade through AfCFTA.
The Consul-General of South Africa in Lagos and Acting High Commissioner in Nigeria, Professor Bobby J. Moroe (left), and Chairperson of the South Africa-Nigeria Chamber of Commerce (NSACC), Dr Ije Jidenma (right), delivering remarks during the opening day of the Outward Selling Mission (OSM) to Nigeria in Lagos.
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Issued by: The Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (the dtic)
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