Akeredolu seeks South African partnership

The Ondo State governor, Mr. Rotimi Akeredolu, on Thursday said the state would establish a synergy with the South Africa country in order to create room for greater development between the fastest growing economy in Africa and the state.

Akeredolu who stated this in Akure, Ondo state capital, during a courtesy call of the Consular General of South Africa, Mr. Darkey Africa and his team to the governor in his office

Akeredolu identified areas of partnership with which the state can partner with the South Africa which included, agriculture, industrialization, power and maritime in which the two countries can create synergy.

According to the governor, Nigeria could learn one or two things in cattle ranching to address the incessant grazing conflicts between the herdsmen and farmers which that has resulted to loss of lives and property in the country.

Akeredolu also explained that Ondo State with the longest and deepest coastline in Nigeria will be willing to partner with South Africa so as to harness the potentials of the southern part of the state.

The governor, however, pointed out that the cordial relationship would not be achieved if xenophobic activities in South Africa on Nigerians continued unchecked.

On his part, the Consular General, Mr. Africa, said that all relevant steps would be taken to deepen the existing relationship between the two countries.

He noted that both countries have a lot in common in terms of ideology, adding that South Africa would send a delegation to Nigeria to look at various ways both countries could come together to synergize.

He said South Africa is willing to partner with Ondo State so as to claim the wealth of the sea saying the visit would be the beginning of a relationship aimed at improving the standard of living of the citizens of the state, Nigeria and also South Africa.