As diplomatic tensions between South Africa and the United States continue to simmer, South Africa has extended an invitation to Nigeria to host a key G20 event in Abuja—a move that could reshape regional alliances and deepen cooperation between Africa’s two largest economies.
According to Africa Intelligence, South Africa’s Foreign Minister, Ronald Lamola, extended the offer to his Nigerian counterpart as part of preparations for the upcoming G20 leaders’ summit in Johannesburg this November.
This invitation highlights Nigeria’s growing involvement in global governance and may signal a shift in continental alliances, particularly as South Africa’s relationship with the United States becomes increasingly tense.
South Africa’s strained relations with the US
Tensions between South Africa and the United States have sharply escalated, with both nations taking retaliatory actions, including diplomatic withdrawals and trade sanctions.
The fallout stems from South Africa’s land reform policies, which have drawn strong criticism from U.S. figures like Elon Musk, an ally of President Trump.
In response, the Trump administration suspended financial aid to South Africa, worsening its trade outlook.
The ANC dismissed Trump’s claims as a diversion amid criticism of U.S. tariffs. The rift deepened with the expulsion of South Africa’s ambassador and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s refusal to attend a meeting in South Africa.
Trump has threatened to boycott the upcoming G20 summit, prompting South Africa to explore alternative arrangements.
The upcoming G20 meeting in Johannesburg marks a historic moment as South Africa becomes the first African nation to hold the rotating presidency.
However, rising diplomatic tensions with the United States, which will take over the presidency next year, have overshadowed the event.
While Nigeria is not yet a formal G20 member, the invitation highlights its growing global economic influence and South Africa’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s inclusion.
President Cyril Ramaphosa pledged to advocate for Nigeria’s G20 membership during the launch of South Africa’s presidency in Cape Town earlier this year.
