Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari arrived in South Africa on Thursday to kick off a state visit, a month after the Rainbow Nation witnessed a spate of xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals – including Nigerians.
Some 12 people died in the mayhem, two foreigners and 10 South Africans. However, the police pointed out that none of the dead were Nigerians.
But hundreds of the Nigerian nationals, with the assistance of their government and local authorities, fled the country in fear for their lives at the height of the violent attacks.
Buhari’s visit is host President Cyril Ramaphosa’s first state visit under his new administration, the presidency said on Thursday.
According to the high office, one of the main features of the visit will be a Joint Business Forum with a focus on trade and investment.
“The state visit will provide an opportunity for the two presidents to strengthen and deepen political, economic, social and cultural relations between the two countries.
“In addition, it will also create space for deliberations on issues of mutual interest and concern pertaining to the continent and global governance,” the presidency said.
NM/as/APA