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Beyond Publicity: How PR can Inspire Quality Education for Nation Building”Q

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By Ishola, N. Ayodele

In today’s rapidly evolving global landscape, the role of education in shaping the future of nations has never been more crucial. As we celebrated the World Education Day yesterday February 7th, 2024, it’s imperative to reflect on the significance of education not only in individual lives but also in the broader context of national development. Public relations (PR), with its power to shape perceptions and narratives, plays a pivotal role in positioning education as the driving force behind national progress. Let us explore this role further.

 

Shifting Perceptions: Education as a Catalyst for Development

Public perception plays a fundamental role in shaping policies, garnering support, and driving change. Public relations professionals can leverage their expertise to reshape the narrative around education, emphasizing its transformative potential for societies. By highlighting success stories, showcasing the achievements of educational institutions, and promoting the benefits of education at all levels, PR campaigns can foster a culture that values learning as a cornerstone of progress.
One of the most iconic examples of how public relations campaigns emphasizing the importance of education, particularly in mathematics and science, contributed to significant national achievements is the United States’ successful mission to land the first humans on the moon during the Apollo program.

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During the Cold War, the Soviet Union’s advancements in space technology, notably the launch of the Sputnik satellite, ignited fears in the United States of lagging behind in scientific progress. To counter this perception and rally national pride, the U.S. government, in collaboration with NASA, launched a strategic public relations campaign. Central to this campaign was the emphasis on education, particularly in STEM fields, positioning it as essential for fostering future innovation and competitiveness.

Concurrently, the Apollo program was framed not just as a scientific endeavor but as a national mission, emphasizing its significance for technological prowess, economic prosperity, and global leadership. Through extensive public engagement efforts, including media appearances, public speeches, and educational programs, NASA garnered widespread public support, transcending political divides and rallying Americans behind the ambitious goal of landing a man on the moon.

The successful moon landing not only demonstrated American technological prowess but also served as a symbol of national excellence and perseverance. It bolstered the country’s global reputation and reaffirmed its position as a leader in science, technology, and exploration.

Advocacy and Policy Influence
Influencing policy is another crucial aspect of utilizing public relations to position education as a driver of national development. PR professionals can engage with policymakers, advocacy groups, and thought leaders to advocate for policies that prioritize investment in education, ensure equitable access to quality education, and promote lifelong learning opportunities. By articulating compelling narratives backed by data and research, PR campaigns can mobilize public support and shape policy agendas that prioritize education as a fundamental pillar of national development.

The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA), a federal education law enacted in the United States in 2015, serves as a prime example of public relations influencing policy. Advocates engaged stakeholders across the board, including policymakers, educators, parents, and business leaders, to rally support for the legislation. Through compelling narratives and data-backed arguments, they highlighted the need for education reform and showcased how ESSA’s provisions would address shortcomings of previous policies, garnering bipartisan support and ultimately shaping how states approach assessment, accountability, and support for students.

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ESSA’s passage marked a significant shift in federal education policy, providing states with greater flexibility while maintaining accountability for student achievement. This strategic public relations effort underscored the importance of education in driving national progress, showcasing how effective communication and advocacy can influence policy, shape legislation, and ultimately impact the educational landscape for the better.

3. Building Partnerships: Collaboration for Impact
Effective public relations in the education sector also involves forging strategic partnerships between educational institutions, government agencies, businesses, and civil society organizations. By facilitating dialogue and collaboration among these stakeholders, PR professionals can create synergies that maximize the impact of education initiatives. Whether it’s through public-private partnerships, community engagement programs, or academic-industry collaborations, these efforts can drive innovation, foster entrepreneurship, and address societal challenges.

For example, the Malawi government partnered with organizations like Save the Children and UNICEF to improve access to education, train teachers, and provide school supplies to children in remote areas.
Another example is Bridge International Academies BIA (An organization that provides low-cost educational service for pupils in remote, underserved communities worldwide) partnering with the Liberia government to manage a network of public schools, providing training, resources, and management expertise to enhance educational outcomes

4. Harnessing Digital Platforms: Reaching a Wider Audience
In today’s digital age, the reach and impact of public relations efforts are amplified through online channels and social media platforms. PR professionals can harness the power of digital communication to disseminate educational content, engage with diverse audiences, and spark meaningful conversations around the importance of education. From multimedia campaigns to interactive storytelling, digital PR strategies can effectively reach both urban and rural populations, breaking down barriers to access and fostering inclusive educational opportunities for all.

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One exemplary case is the School of Impactful Communication (TSIC), which has effectively utilized digital communication channels to enrich the understanding of public relations in Nigeria. Through weekly classes hosted on Telegram and short weekday sessions on WhatsApp, TSIC has successfully honed and updated the skills of numerous PR professionals and practitioners. Additionally, TSIC has established a dedicated website featuring PR case studies, becoming a premier resource for PR scholars and students across Africa. The School of Impactful Communication (TSIC) has made so much remarkable contribution to the field of public relations that it won the prestigious ‘Knowledge Hub of the Year’ at the 2023 SAEMA Awards. This recognition underscores TSIC’s pivotal role as a leading institution in advancing knowledge and expertise in public relations. Through its innovative approaches

5. Measuring Impact: Demonstrating Return on Investment
As with any PR initiative, measuring impact and demonstrating return on investment are essential for assessing the effectiveness of efforts to position education as a driver of national development. By leveraging data analytics, surveys, and feedback mechanisms, PR professionals can gauge public sentiment, track engagement metrics, and evaluate the outcomes of education-related campaigns. These insights not only inform ongoing strategies but also provide evidence of the tangible benefits of investing in education for individuals, communities, and nations.

In the early 2000s, Finland grappled with challenges in its education system, marked by declining student performance and discontent among educators. To address these issues, the government introduced reforms emphasizing standardized testing and heightened accountability. However, public reception to these changes was mixed, with concerns raised about potential negative impacts on student well-being and the overall quality of education. Acknowledging the significance of public sentiment in shaping policy, the Finnish government engaged in extensive consultations and surveys with stakeholders, including educators, parents, and students, to gauge opinions on the proposed reforms.

The feedback from these consultations underscored widespread opposition to the emphasis on standardized testing and a growing preference for more holistic, student-centered educational approaches. In response, the Finnish government shifting away its education policy from standardized testing by reducing emphasis on formal assessment and adopted a more flexible and inclusive model focused on increasing teacher autonomy and professional development opportunities, and prioritizing student well-being and equity in education. These changes reflected a shift in policy direction based on public sentiment due to strategic use of public relations.

Conclusion
Malcolm X’s assertion that “Education is the passport to the future, for tomorrow belongs to those who prepare for it today” encapsulates the timeless significance of education in shaping individual and collective destinies thereby standing as a linchpin for national progress.
From the iconic Apollo program inspiring STEM education in America to Finland’s pivot away from standardized testing, these examples underscore PR’s impact in fostering inclusive, innovative, and equitable education systems worldwide. As nations navigate the complexities of the 21st century, harnessing the power of PR in positioning education as a driver of national development remains paramount for shaping a brighter future for generations to come.
Consequently, we must always remember that, “while education lays the foundation for the future, it is PR that ensures its enduring relevance and impact.”

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Ishola, N. Ayodele is a distinguished and multiple award-winning strategic communication expert who specializes in ‘Message Engineering’. He helps Organizations, Brands and Leaders Communicate in a way that yields the desired outcome. He is the author of the seminal work, ‘PR Case Studies; Mastering the Trade,’ and Dean, the School of Impactful Communication (TSIC). He can be reached via ishopr2015@gmail.com or 08077932282.

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Opinions

Celebrating Oyebanji, the People’s Governor at 57

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By Olayinka Oyebode

Two major events that happened at two different locations in Ekiti State earlier in the month, again laid credence to the primacy of capacity, character and compassion in the leadership style of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji. First was the event at Oke Ako Ekiti, in the north senatorial district, which featured the distribution of cheques totalling N160 million as compensation to land owners whose land were acquired for the commercial farming scheme for young farmers and the flag- off of some newly purchased tractors and other equipment. The second event which came barely 48 hours after was the distribution of cheques totalling N140 million to some young farmers as payment for the farm produce off-taken from them across the six farm clusters.

The gist here is that the chains of activities- the land acquisition, the compensation and the utilisation of the acquired land, the first harvest and the off-taking of the harvested crops as well as the purchase of tractors and other equipment required for the tractorisation policy of the government was completed within the space of six months of the introduction of the scheme, code-named “Bring Back the Youth Into Agriculture” a programme run in partnership with a private investor.

Four weeks earlier, in a move aimed at achieving energy independence and ensuring that his administration’s huge investments in power infrastructure achieve the desired result, Governor Oyebanji had granted operational licence to 14 investors which included three distribution companies, four power generating companies, two mini-grid generation companies and five meter asset providers.

The pace-setting and strategic move is to enhance power generation, ensure efficient distribution and provide reliable metering for residents. The goal is to move the state from the 20-25 mw it gets from the national grid (which falls short of the estimated requirement of 120mw) and move up to 130mw through a robust state grid, reducing dependency on the national supply and promoting sustainable. locally managed energy solutions. Again, the initiative, which aligns with the 2023 Electricity Act, was achieved within the space of a year that also witnessed a massive power upgrade and re-connection of many communities that hitherto were without power supply to the national grid.

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Remarkably, Oyebanji is quite intentional about putting smiles on the faces of the people. Moved by the plight of Ekiti pensioners in the face of accumulated gratuities inherited from previous administration, the Governor, had in the last two months paid a total 4.5 billion naira to offset part of the outstanding gratuities. This is outside the regular monthly payment of gratuities. Aside supporting and equipping workers in the state to ensure a more excellent service delivery, the Governor put extra smiles on the faces of Ekiti teachers earlier in the year, when he directed that primary school teachers with degree qualifications should enjoy career progression to level 16 like others. This is in addition to extending car and housing loans to them, thereby bringing them out of an age-long policy that had deprived them.

The community of people with disabilities have also found a champion in Governor Oyebanji, who through his inclusion policy has not only created a government department headed by a cabinet –ranked officials and saddled with their welfare. This has resulted in a greater attention for the welfare and human capital development of PWD, with attendant huge investment in the upgrade of the state special schools and establishment of a trauma centre for children with disabilities.

These, and several other cutting-edge initiatives that authenticate the welfarist approach of his government and underscores his compassionate nature as a leader as well as his sheer determination to create economic opportunities for the people, are what stand Governor Oyebanji out as a true leader of the people, who is happy only when the people are happy and progressing.

And because the people know that “BAO” or “Talk- and- do Governor”, as he is fondly called, is passionate about their welfare and wellbeing, they have chosen to celebrate him not only on his birthday, but on daily basis and with the same level of energy and dexterity with which he serves them.

As the renowned American author and speaker, John C. Maxwell puts it, a leader is someone who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way”. Governor Oyebanji has a clear vision, which he communicates quite eloquently with corresponding actions. He walks the talk and he helps the people achieve their vision and purpose as well. This, many people believe, had provoked critical stakeholders in the state, including all former governors, to endorse him for a second term even before he marked his second anniversary in office.

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Those who live by their strength may readily provide an answer to the question bordering on how they surmount obstacles and stay on top of their game. But those who live by the power of the Almighty God and the attendant grace can’t make such boast. Rather, they work hard, they work hand-in- hand with others, and they let God be God over everything- directing each step all the way through the paths that eventually yield boundless rewards. This is the story of the Omoluabi Governor of Ekiti State, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji as he clocks fifty-seven years old today.

Those who have followed Oyebanji’s trajectory right from his undergraduate days, know that his political philosophy is built around the social democratic principle of lifting and supporting the weak and the vulnerable in society as well as the biblical injunction of love thy neighbour as yourself. An apostle of soft leadership, BAO’s genuine concerns include how transformational leadership can replace transactional politics; how to build strong institutions that will support growth and development; how to make government wear human face; how to get every citizen to contribute to state and nation building, each utilising his talent, time, platform and resources; and what mechanism should be put in place for genuine and effective empowerment of the citizens towards the attainment of shared prosperity for all.

Governor Oyebanji is disarmingly humble. He proudly wears humility like a garment. He possesses an insatiable appetite for championing good causes. In a recent interviews with state correspondents, he told them the secret of his calmness. According to him, he has committed the state into God’s hands, hence he is not under any pressure. Those who have come in contact with him, and, indeed a vast majority of Ekiti people believe humility remains his greatest asset, and gratitude the most potent weapon in his arsenal. This year alone, he has caused the office of the Secretary to the State Government to issue letters of commendation to no fewer than three members of his cabinet, as well as the chairman of the State Internal Revenue Service, appreciating them on behalf of the government and people of the state for their superlative performances.

As a change agent, BAO believes a leader must live in the hearts of the people by serving them diligently and faithfully, knowing he is accountable to the people and would give account of his stewardship to God one day. He believes trust is a public good without which no great thing can be achieved collectively. Hence, he believes trust has to be earned. As a leader, he embodies creativity, character, competence, and compassion with passion for excellence.

Born on December 21, 1967, in Ikogosi-Ekiti, Oyebanji had his early education in his home state. He bagged a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science from the Ondo State University (now Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti) in 1989 and Masters’ degree in Political Science (International Relations and Strategic Studies), from the University of Ibadan in 1992.
He started his career as a Lecturer at the Department of Political Science, Ondo State University, Ado-Ekiti, between 1993 – 1997 . He later proceeded to work as Manager, Treasury, and Financial Services at the defunct Omega Bank Plc (now Heritage Bank) till May 1999, when he commenced an illustrious career in politics and governance.

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Since embracing public service in 1999, Oyebanji has served in various capacities with different administrations. He also served as Secretary to Ekiti State Government between October 2018 to December 2021, when he resigned his appointment to join the governorship race, which he won on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in June 22, 2022. He was inaugurated Governor of Ekiti State on October 16, 2022.

A devout Christian, Oyebanji sees his career in politics and governance as a divine calling. This philosophy remains his guiding light as he continues to serve God and country diligently as a loyal party man and conscientious public servant.

In recognition of his inspirational life journey, BAO has received many awards and recognitions. He was named Governor of the Year (2023) by Daily Independent Newspaper and Marketing Edge Magazine. He is also a recipient of the Ekiti Exceptional Achievers (MEEA) Award, granted in recognition of his contributions to the creation of Ekiti State as Secretary, State Creation Committee and Secretary, Ekiti State Development Fund.

Oyebanji is married to Dr Olayemi Oyebanji, an Associate Professor of Educational Management, University of Ibadan. They are blessed with three children.

As he celebrates another year of impact, Oyebanji remains an inspiration to both existing and aspiring leaders and a symbol of boundless grace. At 57, his legacy of integrity, innovation, loyalty, diligence and generosity of spirit continues to shape political narratives and inspire generations to come.

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• Olayinka Oyebode is Special Adviser (Media) to the Governor, Ekiti State

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10 ways the Tax Bills will make states richer

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By Temitope Ajayi

Human beings naturally resist change. When comfortable where we are, we find it extremely difficult to embrace an uncharted path or seek greater glory. Those who are risk averse often don’t want to venture out to embrace unfamiliar territories no matter how tempting the possible reward may appear. We should not, however, be so imprisoned by the fear of the unknown not to explore new possibilities because we find our present circumstances satisfying enough.

Since the public debate around the Tax Reform Bills started, the strongest push back against it has come largely from the north. Borno State Governor, Professor Babagana Zulum has become the face of the resistance for the reasons he has pushed forward, even when some of them didn’t speak to the facts and provisions of the bills.

If Governor Zulum and other voices of resistance who think the states will be shortchanged had actually taken time to examine the four executive Bills, they will see how progressive and transformative the Bills are. They will also discern the thought behind them which is primarily to make both the Federal and sub-nationals fiscally stronger and buoyant.

In his public presentations and the most recent being the Channels TV Town Hall moderated by Seun Okinbaloye Monday evening, Chairman of Presidential Committee on Tax and Fiscal Policy Reforms, Taiwo Oyedele and other panelists again made convincing arguments for the passage of the Bills before the National Assembly.

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Here are the 10 ways the Tax Bills will serve the states better and enhance their capacity to earn more revenue:

1. The federal government will cede 5% out of its current 15% share of VAT revenue to states.

2. The Bills will transfer income from the Electronic Money Transfer levy exclusively to states as part of stamp duties.

3. The Bills seek to repeal obsolete stamp duties law and re-enactment of a simplified law to enhance the revenue for states.

4. Under the new dispensation the Tax Bills will usher in, states will be entitled to the tax of Limited Liability Partnerships.

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5. When passed by the National Assembly, the Tax Bills will enable the state government to enjoy tax exemption on their bonds to be at par with federal government bonds.

6. Under the proposed tax reform, states will enjoy a more equitable model for VAT attribution and distribution that will lead to higher VAT income.

7. Integrated tax administration will provide tax intelligence to states, strengthen capacity development and collaboration, and scope of Tax Appeal Tribunal to cover taxpayer disputes on state taxes.

8. The proposed tax laws grant powers for Accountant General of the Federation to deduct taxes unremitted by a government or MDA and pay to the beneficiary sub-national government on personal income tax of workers of federal institutions in states.

9. Framework to grant autonomy for states internal revenue service and enhanced Joint Revenue Board to promote collaborative fiscal federalism.

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10. Legal framework for taxation of lottery and gaming and introduction of withholding tax for the benefit of states.

From the aforementioned, it is clear that the Tax Bills are not in any way injurious to the states. Apart from streamlining the tax system in Nigeria and catalysing economic output, the tax and fiscal policy reforms provide incentives for states to become economic powerhouses. The challenge for governors will be to put on their thinking cap by investing in manpower and critical social and physical infrastructure in their states that will support businesses and socio-economic activities to flourish.

-Ajayi is Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity

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Forging Ahead: The Evolving Nigeria-South Africa Alliance

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By Sunday Dare

As Nigeria and South Africa hold the 11th session of Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission, in Cape Town, on Tue Dec 3, 2024 it is trite to establish the contours of their relationship and to thank President Tinubu for keeping faith with Africa’s other big brother.
The radar on Nigeria again shifts to South Africa witnessing three weeks of unprecedented shuttle political and economic diplomacy.

President Bola Tinubu’s co-chairmanship of the 11th Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) alongside President Cyril Ramaphosa marks a significant diplomatic step towards fostering stronger bilateral ties.

This meeting, which coincides with the 25th anniversary of the BNC, underscores the importance of high-level engagements between Africa’s two largest economies.

As Nigeria and South Africa convene the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town on Tuesday, December 3, 2024, it is imperative to reflect on the historical and evolving contours of their relationship. This milestone session, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the BNC, serves as a testament to the resilience, ambition, and shared vision of Africa’s two largest economies. It is also a fitting moment to commend President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his unwavering commitment to fostering robust ties with Africa’s other “big brother,” South Africa.

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In the wake of three weeks of intense shuttle diplomacy spanning political and economic arenas, Nigeria’s radar is again fixed on South Africa. These engagements underscore a mutual recognition of their intertwined destinies in shaping Africa’s future.

As leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders converge in Cape Town, the air will be laden with both expectation and nostalgia—a poignant reminder of a partnership that has endured triumphs, challenges, and moments of historic significance.

One cannot but recall May 1990, when Nelson Mandela, few months after his release from Robben Island, embarked on a state visit to Lagos. That moment, etched in the annals of African solidarity, rekindled the bond between Nigeria and South Africa, catalyzing a renewed era of collaboration. It was a symbolic bridge, uniting the aspirations of two nations whose struggles and victories have defined the narrative of Africa’s journey toward liberation and unity.

This week, Cape Town becomes the stage for another chapter in this storied relationship. With the BNC serving as a platform for dialogue and cooperation, the two nations are poised to reaffirm their roles as co-architects of a continent driven by shared prosperity, peace, and purpose. Their ability to navigate the currents of history while embracing the opportunities of the future demonstrates that this partnership is, indeed, coming of age.

Established in 1999, the Nigeria-South Africa BNC is a structured platform aimed at enhancing cooperation across political, economic, and social sectors. Over the years, the commission has evolved into a key mechanism for dialogue, addressing shared challenges, and fostering sustainable development.

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This year’s session, encompassing eight working groups, highlights both nations’ commitment to addressing mutual priorities: These key priorities include political consultations (ensuring stability in regional and global contexts), consular and migration Issues (addressing concerns such as xenophobia and facilitating smoother relations), banking and finance (exploring avenues for economic integration), defence and security (trackling transnational crimes and terrorism), as well as manufacturing and trade (including strengthening intra-African trade under the African Continental Free Trade Agreement, AfCFTA). Also covered are mines and energy (leveraging natural resources for mutual benefit, social sector development (promoting education, healthcare, and culture), and trade and Investment (expanding business opportunities for both nations).

The philosophical underpinnings for the BNC embodies principles of Pan-Africanism, Ubuntu, and liberal institutionalism, emphasizing unity, collective progress, and institutionalized cooperation. As Nelson Mandela aptly stated, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” This captures the essence of overcoming historical frictions to achieve a united African future.

President Tinubu’s leadership in this context is pivotal, reflecting Nigeria’s strategic role in Africa’s socio-economic and political landscape.

A discussion of the ongoing efforts would be incomplete without referencing philosophical concepts that accentuate its significance.
Rooted in the works of W.E.B. Du Bois, Kwame Nkrumah, and Julius Nyerere, Pan-Africanism emphasizes the solidarity of African nations to combat external domination and promote socio-economic progress. The BNC reflects this ideal by uniting Nigeria and South Africa as pillars of African development. As Kwame Nkrumah once said, “The forces that unite us are intrinsic and greater than the superimposed influences that keep us apart.”. This quote underscores the importance of Nigeria and South Africa overcoming historical challenges, such as xenophobia, to focus on collective progress.

The BNC’s deliberations and MoUs can be seen as an extension of this principle. According to Aristotle, “The good of the people must be the great aim of government.” The Southern African philosophy of Ubuntu, often translated as “I am because we are,” aligns with the spirit of the BNC. It emphasizes interconnectedness, mutual respect, and the collective good. Ubuntu offers a philosophical lens through which Nigeria and South Africa can navigate shared challenges and opportunities. As Desmond Tutu once reflected: “We can only be human together: hence, the essence of collaborative efforts in fostering a united African front.

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Beyond these, the Dependency Theory, associated with scholars like Andre Gunder Frank, critiques the global economic system’s perpetuation of underdevelopment in the Global South. By strengthening intra-African trade and reducing reliance on foreign powers, Nigeria and South Africa can challenge these structures through platforms like the BNC. Joseph Stiglitz’s words that “Development is about transforming the lives of people, not just transforming economies,” aligns with the BNC’s goals of translating economic growth into meaningful societal impacts.

The pragmatic effort to address specific issues in trade, security, and development stresses the responsibility of both leaders to focus on concrete outcomes over rhetoric. More importantly, it refects the basic principles of African Renaissance. Championed by scholars like Cheikh Anta Diop and Thabo Mbeki, the African Renaissance envisions a continent reclaiming its rightful place in global affairs through unity, cultural revival, and economic development. The BNC is a practical manifestation of this vision.Certainly, Tinubu and Ramaphosa are evoking the shared identity and destiny of Nigerians and South Africans in fostering an African Renaissance. The BNC serves as a practical example of liberal institutionalism, fostering dialogue and collaboration in a structured manner. As Martin Luther King Jr once stated, “We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools.” This underscores the imperative for sustained collaboration through institutions like the BNC.

Constructivism suggests that international relations are shaped by ideas, identities, and shared values rather than mere material factors. Therefore, the symbolic 25th anniversary of the BNC is a reflection of the shared identity and history of Nigeria and South Africa.
According to John Maynard Keynes, “The ideas of men, their dreams and visions, are much more powerful than material forces.” The role of shared visions in shaping Nigeria-South Africa relations cannot be over-emphasized.

Shared History

The history of Nigeria-South Africa relationship runs through the period of Anti-Apartheid Solidarity of 1960 – 1965, through Post-Apartheid engagement that started in 1999. Nigeria was a leading supporter of South Africa’s liberation movement. Between 1960 and 1995, Nigeria committed substantial financial and diplomatic resources to the anti-apartheid struggle, offering refuge and education to South African exiles like Thabo Mbeki.The Bi-National Commission, established in 1999, institutionalized bilateral cooperation. However, relations have faced challenges, including xenophobic attacks in South Africa and trade imbalances.

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The current nature of the two countries’ economic relations shows that Nigeria’s oil exports and South Africa’s industrial expertise complement each other. Opportunities under AfCFTA and energy collaboration highlight the untapped potential of this relationship. Looking ahead, it is rather easy to see that with strong historical ties and shared visions, Nigeria and South Africa are well-positioned to lead Africa’s socio-economic transformation.

From Anti-Apartheid Solidarity to Economic Collaboration

The Nigeria-South Africa relationship is a tale of resilience, solidarity, and transformation, deeply rooted in shared historical, political, and economic narratives. As Africa’s largest economies, the two nations have carved distinct yet intertwined paths that highlight their roles as both leaders and collaborators in shaping the continent’s destiny. From Nigeria’s pivotal support during South Africa’s anti-apartheid struggle to their evolving economic partnership, this relationship embodies the essence of African unity. Yet, it has not been without its challenges, marked by moments of friction and unresolved tensions.
The forthcoming 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town provides a fitting occasion to reflect on this storied partnership. With the backdrop of the 25th anniversary of the BNC, it is an opportune moment to examine how the two nations have evolved from their shared fight for justice to becoming co-architects of Africa’s economic and political renaissance.
The roots of the Nigeria-South Africa partnership lie in the era of apartheid, where Nigeria emerged as one of the most steadfast allies of the African National Congress (ANC) and other liberation movements in South Africa and Nigeria’s key contributions cover:

• Diplomatic Advocacy: Nigeria was a vocal opponent of apartheid on global platforms such as the United Nations and the Commonwealth, pushing for sanctions and isolating South Africa’s apartheid regime diplomatically.

• Financial and Material Aid: Under initiatives such as the “Mandela Tax,” successive Nigerian governments provided significant financial and logistical support to the ANC. Over the decades, Nigeria is estimated to have spent over $61 billion in its efforts to dismantle apartheid.

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• Educational and Cultural Solidarity: Nigeria welcomed South African exiles and offered scholarships to ANC members, including figures like Thabo Mbeki, who studied and lived in Nigeria during apartheid. Nigerian universities served as sanctuaries for intellectual and political development for many South African activists.

• Civil Society Advocacy: Nigerian artists, intellectuals, and activists utilized literature, music, and advocacy to raise global awareness of the atrocities of apartheid and rally international solidarity.

Nigeria-South Africa relations in the post-apartheid era reflects collaboration, along with some measure of frictions. With apartheid dismantled in 1994 and Nelson Mandela’s election as South Africa’s first democratic president, the dynamic between the two nations transitioned from solidarity to collaboration. However, this new era was also punctuated by moments of tension.

Collaborative Achievements

• Institutional Frameworks: The establishment of the Bi-National Commission in 1999 formalized a structured approach to bilateral engagement.

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• African Leadership: Both nations played pivotal roles in initiatives such as the African Union (AU) and the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD), advancing the African Renaissance.

• Economic Ties: South African corporations such as MTN, Shoprite, and Multichoice became prominent players in Nigeria’s economic landscape, fostering trade and investment.

Sources of Tension:

• Xenophobia: Recurrent xenophobic attacks on Nigerians living in South Africa have strained relations, spotlighting socio-economic grievances and perceptions of competition.

• Diplomatic Disputes: Occasional policy disagreements, such as South Africa’s visa denial to Nigerian officials during Goodluck Jonathan’s presidency, have highlighted gaps in mutual understanding.

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• Trade Imbalance: While South African businesses thrive in Nigeria, Nigerian firms face significant barriers in South Africa, fueling perceptions of unequal benefits.

Pragmatic mutual exploration of trade and economic potentials has since taken over. As Africa’s two largest economies, Nigeria and South Africa are uniquely positioned to lead the continent’s economic transformation.
Current Dynamics.

• Trade Composition: Nigeria primarily exports crude oil and natural gas to South Africa, while South Africa exports machinery, manufactured goods, and processed foods.

• Investment Landscape: South African firms dominate in sectors like telecommunications (MTN), retail (Shoprite), and media (Multichoice).
Opportunities for Growth.

• Intra-African Trade: The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) presents opportunities for deeper trade integration, particularly in technology and industrial goods.

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• Energy Partnerships: Nigeria’s energy surplus and South Africa’s demand create possibilities for collaboration in oil, gas, and renewables.

• Shared Regional Leadership: Joint infrastructural and developmental initiatives can drive economic growth across Africa.

A Vision for the Future
Despite historical and contemporary challenges, the Nigeria-South Africa partnership remains a cornerstone of African diplomacy. The 25th anniversary of the Bi-National Commission serves as an opportunity to recalibrate their relationship and unlock its potential for mutual and continental benefits.

As Thabo Mbeki poignantly remarked:
“We share a common destiny as Africans. Only through unity and cooperation can we rise above our challenges and achieve greatness.”
This sentiment captures the essence of Nigeria-South Africa relations—a partnership poised to redefine Africa’s trajectory toward peace, prosperity, and global relevance.

Sunday Dare
Special Adviser, to the President on Media and Public Communications

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