South Africa and Nigeria Deepen Mining Ties to Drive Regional Growth

By Bradley Riviera 

Pretoria, South Africa — South Africa and Nigeria are advancing a strategic partnership aimed at unlocking mutual opportunities in mining, oil, and gas, following high-level talks under the South Africa–Nigeria Bi-National Commission. The collaboration signals a renewed commitment to intra-African trade, industrialisation, and energy security.

Minister in the Presidency Khumbudzo Ntshavheni confirmed that Cabinet had been briefed on technical resolutions reached during Mineral Resources Minister Gwede Mantashe’s recent visit to Nigeria. The visit focused on leveraging South Africa’s mining expertise to support Nigeria’s ambitions in mineral exploration and production.

Mining Expertise Meets Untapped Potential

Nigeria, home to over 23 commercially viable mineral resources, is seeking to diversify its economy beyond oil. South Africa, with its globally recognised mining capabilities, is positioned to support this transition through knowledge exchange, joint exploration, and technology transfer.

“South Africa has an interest in securing oil allocations and liquid petroleum gas from Nigeria,” Ntshavheni said, “and also to learn from Nigeria’s vast experience in oil and gas exploration.”

Energy Security and Strategic Supply

Nigeria has committed to finalising commercial terms for crude oil allocations to South Africa by the end of August 2025. This would enable direct access for South African refineries—both public and private—reducing reliance on intermediaries and stabilising supply chains.

The partnership also includes plans for geological mapping, mineral data sharing, and collaborative exploration of agro and energy minerals. These efforts are expected to boost investment, create jobs, and foster sustainable development across both nations.

Budget Reforms and Diamond Industry Support

In parallel, Cabinet approved budget reforms to align fiscal planning with South Africa’s developmental state objectives. Ntshavheni announced that the diamond industry will be asked to contribute 1% of its annual revenue to support youth job creation and global marketing of natural diamonds.

“The South African diamond industry remains a significant contributor to the economy,” she said. “This initiative will help reposition our diamonds in a competitive global market.”