The Nigerian government has expressed a strong interest in securing South Africa’s endorsement for its bid to join the G20 and BRICS, two influential groups of major and emerging economies.
During a visit to Cape Town for bi-annual bilateral talks between the two nations, Nigeria’s Minister of State for Foreign Affairs, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu, formally made the request. The discussions took place against the backdrop of the Bi-National Commission Meeting (BNC), where both nations often address their shared interests despite occasional political and economic competition.
South Africa, which assumed the rotating presidency of the G20 on Sunday, welcomed Nigeria’s overture. South African Minister of International Relations, Roland Lamola, expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating, “We value Nigeria’s guidance as we take on this important leadership role. Our shared heritage calls for greater cooperation to improve lives and advance prospects for our people.”
At the BNC, both countries committed to deepening ties in critical sectors such as mining and infrastructure development. This partnership reflects a shared vision for enhancing economic growth and regional influence.
South Africa is already a member of both the G20 and BRICS—a group that includes Brazil, Russia, India, and China—and has historically championed greater representation for developing nations in global decision-making. BRICS recently expanded its membership to include several African countries, such as Egypt and Ethiopia, and now accounts for approximately 37% of global GDP, according to EU estimates.
On Tuesday, Odumegwu-Ojukwu and Lamola are expected to present a draft communique regarding Nigeria’s aspirations to join the G20 and BRICS to Presidents Cyril Ramaphosa and Bola Tinubu for their approval.
This diplomatic push aligns with President Tinubu’s broader reforms aimed at diversifying Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy and revitalizing growth. The move is seen as a step toward enhancing Nigeria’s global standing and economic partnerships.
