Deputy Minister Gina and Minister Jedy-Agba Agree to Remove Bottlenecks Affecting Trade between SA and Nigeria |
| The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Nomalungelo Gina and the Nigerian Minister of State of Power, Mr Goddy Jedy-Agba have agreed that more work needs to be done on addressing the bottlenecks affecting the flow of trade between the two countries. This was the outcome of a bilateral meeting that they held in Abuja as part of the efforts to increase economic, trade and investment cooperation between South Africa and Nigeria.
Gina held numerous bilateral meetings in Abuja. The meetings were preceded by the first-leg of her visit to Nigeria, where she led a business delegation to the Future Energy Nigeria, WAPIC Conference and Expo 2019 that took place in Lagos from 11-12 November 2019. During the deliberations, both Gina and Jedy-Agba agreed that more work needed to be done to remove bottlenecks affecting the flow of trade between the two countries. To this end, a team was established between the two ministries that will work on addressing the challenges and constraints faced by the business fraternity, including the goods that are being delayed at the ports of entry. Both agreed that strong cooperation could give South Africa and Nigeria a start to a journey that will bring positive and sustainable influence on the continent. They concurred that if the two came and collaborated no one can defeat them, and the continent. Both agreed that if the two economies grow, while diversifying, Africa’s economy would do likewise. Gina stated that she believed that the deliberations were a confirmation and continuation of some of the agreements agreed on at the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission held recently and the cooperation and relations the two countries agreed upon and is an indication of progress. “South Africa is interested in Nigeria’s promising energy sector. When we are looking at the challenges that both countries are having we see them as opportunities. If we share our expertise, open up and share these opportunities we will be able to grow and diversify both our economies. As South Africa, when we are looking at the opportunities that Nigeria presents and we do not just come empty handed, we bring expertise, skills transfer and funding through the likes of Development Bank of Southern Africa and Industrial Development Cooperation. We are prepared to consolidate and increase efforts in skills transfer, investment, joint-ventureship and trading with Nigeria,’’ assured Gina. South Africa’s investments in Nigeria are made out of more than 100 companies with a total investment of more than R4.3 billion. They have created significant employment opportunities for Nigerian citizens.  The Deputy Minister of Trade and Industry, Ms Nomalungelo Gina and the Nigerian Minister of State Power, Mr Goddy Jedy-Agba after their bilateral meeting in Abuja, Nigeria. Enquiries: |
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