President Jacob Zuma of South Africa, accompanied by President Muhammadu Buhari were at the National Assembly at exactly 3.10pm, DAILY POST reports.
Describing Nigeria as a great country, Zuma acknowledged that it was an opportunity for him to address the highest law making Institutions in Nigeria.
He expressed South Africa’s commitment to deepening bilateral relation with Nigeria by revamping agreements signed in the past and ensuring that, on the part of his country, they are implemented.
He pointed out that elections conducted in Nigeria were so transparent that it has now effected a change that has become a lesson for the entire continent to learn from.
He recall that General Murtala Mohammed who died 40 years ago laid a legacy that cannot be forgotten by all, while commending President Buhari for sustaining a corrupt free society.
Quoting late Mohammed, Zuma said, “Africa has come of age”, while insisting that all hands must be on deck by various countries of Africa to imbibe his word.
According to him, ”the late Murtala’s inspired word triggered liberation movements across the Africa continent including Southern Africa.”
Zuma maintained that Nigeria’s commitment to Apartheid South Africa was unquestioned, recalling that Nigeria hosting some of the exiled people who were being hunted as a result of the struggle was quite commendable.
Expressing his anger at terrorist attacks in Northern Nigeria, Zuma who hit hard at Boko Haram, expressed hope that the abducted Chibok Girls would be rescued.
Recalling Nigeria’s contribution to South Africa, he said Nigeria established South Africa relief funds, where it funded their students and not only that, but that some South African students were also trained in Nigerian Universities.
He called for proper management of bilateral relations between the two countries which he said was meant to address political and economic well-being of both countries.
He noted his desire for implementing memorandum of understanding between the two countries for robust economic fortunes, attesting to the fact that South Africa alone has over 120 companies in Nigeria.
He revealed that South Africa under his leadership would diversify into power and automobile with Nigeria while calling on Nigerian authorities for further cooperation.
Zuma was optimistic that both countries could harness opportunities in manufacturing sector such that each country should establish companies it has comparative advantage by establishing companies closer to its raw materials.
Part of the confidence South Africa has in Nigeria, he said, was direct flight from Abuja to Johannesburg which began on 20th January, 2016.
Zuma calls for establishment of peaceful and stable environment in Africa, while assuring of his country’s readiness to work with Nigeria in this direction.
He was emphatic that South Africa and Nigeria share common idea in Africa agenda, noting that it would not be difficult for both countries to work as partners in this direction.
On peace and security, Zuma urged both countries to bring out their best, describing both nations as key to sustainability of Africa.
Meanwhile, Nigeria’s Senate President, Bukola Saraki and Speaker, Hon. Yakubu Dogara were unanimous on the need for both countries to work closely in addressing political, social and economic challenges of the continent, noting that Nigeria in the past did her best at ensuring South Africa’s wellbeing.
Dogara who gave his address after Zuma’s speech commended South Africa for their interest in Nigeria’s economy through their investment.
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