The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) marked its 25th anniversary with a grand dinner in Lagos, bringing together senior government officials, diplomats, industry leaders, and corporate executives to celebrate a quarter-century of strengthening bilateral economic relations between Africa’s two largest economies.
Okay News reports that the event, themed “Building Together,” underscored the resilience and growing strategic relevance of the Nigeria–South Africa partnership.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, represented by Commissioner for Commerce, Trade, and Investment Folashade Ambrose-Mendebem, praised the Chamber’s role in driving economic diplomacy and supporting South African businesses operating in Lagos.
He described the NSACC as “a vital foundation for bilateral economic diplomacy,” noting that its efforts have helped advance Lagos’ long-term economic development agenda.
The Governor also urged the private sector to shift investment focus toward high-growth sectors shaping the continent’s future, including manufacturing, fintech, entertainment, and green energy.
He stressed that such investments will define the next phase of Africa’s economic transformation.
NSACC Chair Dr. Ije Jidenma used her keynote remarks to frame the silver jubilee as evidence of what sustained cooperation between Nigeria and South Africa can achieve.
“This 25-year milestone shows that despite the ups and downs, Nigeria and South Africa want to work together. We must go beyond perception and narrative; our people want collaboration,” she said.
Dr. Jidenma emphasised that the anniversary was not merely commemorative but a launchpad for a renewed five-year strategy aimed at deepening trust and strengthening commercial ties.
She also paid tribute to founding members and corporate partners whose commitment helped the Chamber navigate political and economic disruptions over the years.
South Africa’s Consul-General in Lagos, Prof. Bobby Moroe, described the 25-year anniversary as both historic and symbolic, noting that it coincides with 31 years of unbroken diplomatic relations between Nigeria and South Africa.
He applauded the NSACC for “holding the fort” through difficult periods on the continent and highlighted the Chamber’s role in safeguarding commercial cooperation.
Prof. Moroe further urged African businesses to take advantage of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA), calling it a powerful platform for unlocking shared prosperity through integration and innovation. He encouraged companies from both countries to use the NSACC framework to expand cross-border partnerships.
A highlight of the evening was the prestigious awards ceremony, presented by Tobechukwu Okigbo, Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Nigeria.
MTN received the award for Exceptional Partnership, recognising its contribution to strengthening Nigeria–South Africa economic collaboration.
The event closed with an extended session of high-level networking, leaving attendees with a renewed sense of continental unity and optimism. As the NSACC enters its next 25 years, leaders reaffirmed their commitment to building a more connected, competitive, and prosperous African economy.
