This chapter opens by situating the Abuja-Pretoria relationship within its historical context, drawing attention to the strained era under apartheid and the subsequent normalisation of ties following South Africa’s transition to majority rule in 1994 and Nigeria’s return to civilian governance in 1999 after prolonged military rule. It then explores both the material and ideational foundations of Nigeria and South Africa’s claims to regional leadership, as well as their comparative influence relative to other African powers. In this context, their dominance stands out. Whereas North Africa sees a contest for influence among Egypt, Morocco, and Algeria; East Africa among Kenya, Ethiopia, and Tanzania; and Central Africa between Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)—Nigeria and South Africa maintain uncontested leadership in West and Southern Africa, respectively. As such, they are seen as bearing the mantle of continental responsibility. The chapter also underscores the relevance of Afrocentrism—an African-centred framework for interpreting international relations—as a key lens for analysis. This perspective is reflected in both countries’ foreign policies towards each other and the broader continent, particularly in areas such as peacemaking, democracy promotion, regional integration, and Africa’s broader development agenda.