Pretoria- South Africa says Nigeria must use the marking of their 50th anniversary of independence to reflect on their journey travelled so-far.
International Relations Minister Maite Nkoana-Mashabane, who will attend the celebrations in that country, has reinforced South Africa's support for Nigeria as it strives for democratic consolidation and nation-building.
"It is South Africa's view that Nigeria and Nigerians as they celebrate 50 years of Independence - have to be encouraged to reflect on the journey so-far travelled and strides recorded, in the quest for the oneness of their country," spokesperson Saul Molobi said.
"It is our view that a strong Nigeria is in the best interest of our common effort of advancing the African agenda," he added.
Nigeria has already declared Friday as a public holiday for the celebrations, which will be attended by representatives from as far as China and England, among others.
During the visit, the minister will also meet the Chairperson of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Professor Attahiru Jega, in the context of supporting the envisaged cooperation with South Africa's Independent Electoral Commission (IEC).
Relations between South Africa and Nigeria have boomed over the few years with trade relations covering a wide scope of the country's respective private sectors in crucial areas such as energy, telecommunications, banking, construction, hospitality and retail.
