MTN Backs Efforts to Strengthen Nigeria–South Africa Trade and Investment Ties
MTN has reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation by supporting the Nigeria–South Africa Presidential Trade and Investment Breakfast Dialogue, organised by the Nigerian High Commission in South Africa on 21 November 2025, ahead of the G20 Summit.
The high-level gathering, themed “Driving Sustainable Investment, Innovation and Inclusive Trade,” convened ministers, state governors, top South African CEOs, and investors to explore fresh pathways for boosting collaboration between two of Africa’s most influential economies.
Strengthening Regional Economic Partnerships
As a proudly African organisation, MTN emphasised the significance of robust regional alliances in building Africa’s economic resilience. Nigeria and South Africa, long-standing strategic partners, play a central role in advancing cross-border trade, investment flows, and technological innovation on the continent.
MTN Group President and CEO Ralph Mupita, in his welcome remarks, reiterated the company’s commitment to supporting initiatives that foster stronger economic ties. He noted that MTN’s involvement in the dialogue reflects its broader mission to accelerate Africa’s progress through its Ambition 2025 strategy and ongoing efforts in driving digital and financial inclusion.
“We remain focused on enabling environments where businesses can thrive, investment can grow, and technology can accelerate development for millions,” he stated.
Nigeria Reaffirms Openness to Investment
Nigeria’s Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Hon. Adebayo Olawale Edun, addressed participants and emphasised that Nigeria continues to welcome both local and foreign investors.
According to him, “Nigeria is open for business, safe for investment.”
Sanyade Okoli, Special Adviser to the President on Finance and the Economy, outlined the government’s target to grow Nigeria’s GDP by 7% by 2027 and expand employment opportunities nationwide. She explained that the country’s economic agenda is anchored on four critical pillars:
- Strengthening macroeconomic fundamentals
- Advancing governance and regulatory reforms
- Expanding essential infrastructure
- Improving access to capital
She stressed that forums like the trade and investment dialogue are vital, as they bring together the investors, policymakers, and strategic partners required to drive collective progress.
Nigerian Governors Highlight Investment Opportunities
The investment session featured addresses from several Executive Governors of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, including:
- H.E. Senator Uba Sani (Kaduna)
- H.E. Alh. Dauda Lawal (Zamfara)
- H.E. Engr. Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa)
- Senator Ademola Adeleke (Osun)
- H.E. Caleb Mutfwang (Plateau)
- H.E. Mohammed Umaru Bago (Niger)
- H.E. Peter Ndubuisi Mbah (Enugu)
- H.E. Muhammad Inuwa Yahaya (Gombe)
- H.E. Dikko Umar Radda (Katsina)
Their contributions highlighted diverse state-level investment opportunities and reinforced Nigeria’s commitment to fostering an enabling, business-friendly environment.
