Karl Toriola, the Chief Executive Officer of MTN Nigeria, highlighted the company’s dedication to developing dependable digital identity and payment infrastructures. These systems are designed to streamline transactions and improve service delivery for citizens across Nigeria and South Africa.
Addressing attendees at the Nigeria-South Africa Economic Diplomacy Roundtable held in Lagos, Toriola detailed how these trusted systems will empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) to conduct business more effectively, enable content creators to generate income, and facilitate smooth financing within transactional ecosystems.
“Our purpose today is clear: to convert plans into measurable achievements. The relationship between South Africa and Nigeria is frequently celebrated in diplomatic forums, and I am confident our leaders share a common vision. We are committed to establishing reliable digital identity and payment frameworks that benefit our populations across borders and throughout the continent. These frameworks will support SME trade, creator monetization, and the funding of transactional markets,” Toriola remarked.
He urged government officials and industry players to shift focus from mere dialogue to practical execution.
“In Nigeria, our commitment lies in constructing resilient networks, pioneering platforms, and forging strategic alliances. We aim to transform the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) from a theoretical framework into a living, operational reality through legal structures, digital solutions, and software innovations. Our political leaders and regulators will be instrumental in realizing this vision, as harmonized policies are the cornerstone of thriving trade,” he added.
Emphasizing the value of regulatory certainty, Toriola pointed out that investors favor environments where rules are clear and stable over short-term market fluctuations.
“Investors are drawn to markets characterized by transparent, timely, and consistent regulations. Well-communicated policies on taxation, foreign exchange, and profit repatriation build trust and confidence. Stability is not just a business advantage; it is a strategic foundation for job creation and economic growth,” he explained.
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MTN’s Strategy for Continental Partnership
Themed “Africa’s Twin Engines: How Nigeria-South Africa Relations Can Position Africa as a Global Middle Power,” the roundtable was convened under the auspices of South Africa’s Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO).
Supported by the Lagos State Government, the forum sought to advance regional trade and integration goals consistent with the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
Distinguished attendees included Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, Deputy Governor of Lagos State; Thandi Moraka, Deputy Minister from DIRCO South Africa; Karl Toriola, CEO of MTN Nigeria; and Dr. Babatunde Ayeye, Founder and Executive Chairman of IFS Group.
The event also unveiled a Nigeria-South Africa standards and e-certification pilot under AfCFTA, launched a cross-border SME payment corridor leveraging digital payment technologies, and introduced a talent mobility framework to enable mutual recognition of essential digital skills.
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Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, representing Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, depicted Lagos as a central hub for innovation and investment across Africa.
“Lagos is the continent’s creative heartbeat where innovation converges with entrepreneurship. Our creative industries are not only a source of national pride but also a vital driver of inclusive economic development and youth empowerment. We are making strategic investments in innovation hubs, themed districts, and creative villages that offer access to state-of-the-art commercial spaces, data infrastructure, and skill-building initiatives,” he stated.
Hamzat stressed that these efforts aim to provide global creatives with the necessary infrastructure and support to transform their talents into sustainable careers and internationally acclaimed brands.
Thandi Moraka, South Africa’s Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, reiterated the urgency of moving from dialogue to concrete collaboration between Nigeria and South Africa.
“Our countries share a history of solidarity and a future grounded in shared responsibility. As Africa’s dual economic powerhouses, we must go beyond rhetoric to implement policies that harmonize systems, interconnect infrastructures, and empower our citizens. The AfCFTA offers the blueprint; our partnership must bring it to life,” she emphasized.
Moraka highlighted the pivotal role of coordinated trade, digital innovation, and cultural exchange in elevating Africa’s position as a global middle power.
“Africa’s growth story will be defined by unity and connectivity. South Africa’s advanced infrastructure combined with Nigeria’s innovative drive can establish a unified digital ecosystem under the AfCFTA Digital Trade Protocol. Together, we can build an Africa that is inclusive, prosperous, and globally competitive,” she concluded.
Ambassador Nyameko Goso, Chief Director for West Africa at South Africa’s Department of International Regulation and Cooperation, shared insights on enhancing bilateral ties.
“Representing both our High Commission and free consulate in Nigeria, I am proud to witness the ongoing partnership with MTN that strengthens trade relations between our nations. Our collaborative efforts through the binational commission (BNC) exemplify the robust cooperation between South Africa and Nigeria,” he remarked.
Goso reaffirmed South Africa’s dedication to working closely with MTN and business chambers to cultivate a conducive environment for Nigerian and South African enterprises.
“The South African consulate plays a crucial role in Nigeria by fostering an enabling atmosphere and creating platforms for business collaboration. The partnership between MTN and South African missions sets a benchmark that should inspire other companies across Lagos and Nigeria,” he concluded.
The Nigeria-South Africa Ministerial Business Roundtable wrapped up by reiterating MTN’s commitment to fostering partnerships that drive trade facilitation, innovation, and sustainable development across Africa.
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