Despite Xenophobic Attacks, Nigerian Demand For South Africa Visas Surges

The Consul-General of South Africa in Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has revealed that interest among Nigerians in travelling to South Africa remains strong, with visa applications reportedly almost doubling in recent months despite concerns over xenophobic attacks involving foreign nationals.

Moroe made the disclosure during an interview with Nigeria Info FM, where he sought to reassure Nigerians that South Africa remains open to visitors for tourism, business and other legitimate purposes.

According to Ireporter Online, the diplomat’s comments come amid renewed concerns over reports of attacks against African migrants in some parts of South Africa, particularly in Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

Such incidents have previously involved attacks on foreign-owned businesses, physical assaults and the displacement of migrants, with some of the tensions linked to local grievances over employment opportunities and crime.

The Federal Government of Nigeria had also recently facilitated the return of more than 1,400 Nigerians from South Africa following concerns over their safety and circumstances in the country.

Addressing reports that South African diplomatic missions in Nigeria had stopped issuing visas, Moroe dismissed the claims as false, insisting that visa services remain available.

He explained that the reported increase in applications demonstrated that South Africa continues to attract significant interest from Nigerians seeking to visit the country.

Moroe said South Africa remained open to tourism, business and other forms of legitimate travel, while assuring Nigerians that they could visit the country provided they complied with immigration requirements.

He urged prospective travellers to obtain valid visas before departure and adhere strictly to South African immigration laws throughout their stay.

The Consul-General also advised Nigerians visiting the country to familiarise themselves with local laws, understand their rights and identify nearby law enforcement agencies in case they require assistance.

Moroe further encouraged visitors to act responsibly and represent Nigeria positively while in South Africa.

He expressed optimism that the longstanding diplomatic relationship between Nigeria and South Africa would continue to strengthen, with increased movement of people and deeper cooperation between both countries.