Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke has called on South African authorities to intervene and halt the ongoing harassment and molestation of Nigerians in South Africa.
The Governor made this plea during a meeting with the Consul-General of the Republic of South Africa to Nigeria, Professor Bobby J Moroe, and Vice Consul, Busisiwe Dlamini, at the Government House in Osogbo.
Describing the hostile treatment towards Nigerians as “quite disturbing,” Governor Adeleke emphasised that such actions pose a significant threat to the historical bond and brotherhood between Nigeria and South Africa.
He urged the South African government to refrain from profiling an entire nation based on the actions of a few individuals, stressing that every country has its share of both good and bad citizens.
Highlighting the significant presence of law-abiding Nigerian nationals legitimately conducting businesses and services in South Africa, Adeleke emphasised the need to put an end to the increasing incidents of harassment faced by Nigerians in the country.
In response, Consul-General Moroe acknowledged the validity of the concerns raised by Governor Adeleke and assured that the South African government is committed to fostering a harmonious relationship between South Africans and foreign nationals. He underscored the importance of the historical brotherhood and the close economic and diplomatic ties between Nigeria and South Africa.
Moroe cited the numerous marriages between South Africans and Nigerians as a testament to the strong bond between the two nations. He pledged to convey the concerns expressed by Governor Adeleke to the South African government.
During the meeting, both parties discussed the economic opportunities for collaboration between Osun State and the South African province of Gauteng.
They proposed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at fostering cooperation in agro-processing technologies and mining, areas in which both states possess comparative advantages.
Gauteng, known as the “face of Gold,” contributes significantly to South Africa’s gross domestic product (GDP), accounting for 33.9% of the country’s GDP. With a population of 13 million people, the province boasts the highest per-capita income level in South Africa.
The proposed partnership between Osun State and Gauteng Province seeks to capitalise on their respective strengths to enhance economic development and create mutual benefits for both regions. Details of the agreement, including a joint meeting between the Governors of the two states, are currently being finalised.
The collaboration underscores the commitment of both Nigeria and South Africa to strengthen bilateral relations and promote economic prosperity for their citizens.
Chioma Kalu
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