Nigeria-South Africa Chamber seeks calm as unrest threatens trade, investment climate

By Ambrose Nnaji

The Nigeria-South Africa Chamber of Commerce has called for calm, constructive dialogue, and stronger bilateral cooperation following recent unrest in parts of South Africa that has disrupted businesses, affected livelihoods, and raised concerns over investor confidence across the region.

The Chamber said the disturbances have not only impacted communities and foreign nationals, including members of the Nigerian community, but have also created uncertainty for South African enterprises, regional supply chains, and the broader African investment environment.

In a statement issued, the Chamber stressed that Nigeria and South Africa remain two of Africa’s largest economies with deep commercial and diplomatic ties built on trade, mutual respect, and a shared vision for continental prosperity and regional integration.

According to the Chamber, the relationship between both countries extends beyond government-to-government engagements, as Nigerian and South African companies continue to play major roles in sectors such as telecommunications, banking, retail, energy, manufacturing, entertainment, and hospitality across the continent.

The Chamber noted that sustaining peace, social stability, and investor confidence is critical to preserving business operations, protecting cross-border investments, and strengthening intra-African trade relations at a time when the continent is pushing for greater economic integration under initiatives such as the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

It warned that prolonged unrest or instability could undermine business confidence, discourage foreign direct investment inflows, weaken economic activities, and slow efforts aimed at deepening regional trade and economic cooperation among African nations.

The Chamber further urged government authorities, community leaders, civil society organisations, and citizens to embrace peaceful engagement, tolerance, and dialogue while upholding the rule of law to prevent further escalation of tensions.

According to the Chamber, ensuring the safety of residents, businesses, and foreign nationals is essential to maintaining economic stability and sustaining investor trust in South Africa and the broader African market.

It also called for closer collaboration between Nigerian and South African authorities to address the root causes of the unrest, strengthen conflict-resolution mechanisms, improve community relations, and reinforce social cohesion between both countries.

The Chamber said both nations have historically maintained strategic diplomatic and economic relations that have contributed significantly to Africa’s economic growth and political development, adding that preserving these ties remains important for the continent’s long-term prosperity.

The statement added that the private sector has a critical role to play in promoting stability, supporting inclusive economic growth, and encouraging stronger people-to-people relations between citizens of both countries.

The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to promoting stronger economic relations, regional stability, and shared investment opportunities between Nigeria and South Africa despite current challenges, expressing optimism that dialogue and cooperation would help restore confidence and strengthen bilateral ties moving forward.