In a recent announcement, South Africa has decided to grant Ghanaian passport holders a 90-day visa exemption, allowing them free entry into the country starting from November 1. This move has raised questions about Nigeria’s reputation, particularly in light of the recent discovery of President Bola Tinubu’s forged Chicago State University certificate, which he submitted to the Independent National Electoral Commission for the upcoming 2023 presidential election.
At the United Nations General Assembly, Nigeria, often referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” failed to secure a position on the Human Rights Council, receiving only three votes. This lack of support further adds to concerns about Nigeria’s standing in the international community.
Frank Timi, an APC Chieftain, has highlighted the negative impact of President Tinubu’s forgery scandal on Nigerians in the Diaspora, who are now facing difficulties in securing jobs as their certificates are being subjected to thorough scrutiny to verify their authenticity.
According to reports from Peoples Gazette, the decision to grant visa exemption to Ghanaian passport holders is a result of an agreement between the governments of South Africa and Ghana, signifying a strengthening of ties and a new phase of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The official statement released by the South African High Commission outlines that Ghanaian ordinary passport holders can stay in South Africa for a cumulative period of 90 days per year without a visa. Once this period is exhausted within a 12-month period, they will be required to apply for a visa to enter South Africa.
This development is expected to promote tourism, business ventures, and cultural exchange between South Africa and Ghana. It showcases South Africa’s commitment to enhancing relations with Ghana and opens up opportunities for collaboration and mutual benefits in various sectors.
This significant step forward in South Africa’s international relations and cooperation with Ghana may pave the way for further diplomatic collaborations in the future, with potential implications for Nigeria’s position as the “Giant of Africa.”
