The Ondo State governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu, has promised to deepen existing relationship with South Africa to create room for greater development between the two countries.

Speaking during a courtesy call by the Consular General of South Africa, Darkey Africa and his team, Akeredolu identified a lot of areas in which Nigeria could work together with South Africa to archive maximum potential.

The governor mentioned the maritime industry, where he believes the two countries can create synergy, as well as  agriculture, industrialisation, and power. Akeredolu also stated that the state with the longest and deepest coastline in Nigeria is willing to partner with South Africa in order to harness the potential of the southern part of the state.

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

Meanwhile, the Consular General, Darkey Africa, said that all relevant steps would be taken to deepen the existing relationship between the two countries.

Africa noted that 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 away both countries could come together to synergize.

The Consular General said South Africa is willing to partner with Ondo State in order to claim the wealth of the sea.He said the meeting would be the beginning of a relationship aimed at improving the standard of living of the citizens of Nigeria as well as South Africa.