Despite renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks and anti-immigrant sentiment in South Africa, Nigerians continue to show strong interest in travelling to the country for tourism, business, family visits and other purposes.
South Africa’s Consul-General in Lagos, Bobby Moroe, has previously highlighted strong demand for travel between the two countries, with South Africa reporting a significant increase in visa issuance to Nigerian applicants. In July 2024, Moroe said the number of South African visas issued to Nigerians had doubled following improvements to the visa application process.
The continued travel interest is notable against the backdrop of renewed tensions involving foreign nationals in South Africa. In May 2026, the Nigerian government summoned South Africa’s Acting High Commissioner, Bobby Moroe, over reported attacks and harassment targeting Nigerians and other foreign nationals. Nigerian authorities also began arrangements for the voluntary repatriation of citizens who wished to leave South Africa, with 130 Nigerians initially registering for the programme.
The developments have highlighted the complicated nature of relations between Nigeria and South Africa. While concerns about xenophobia have generated strong reactions, the two countries continue to maintain substantial economic, social and diplomatic links.
For many Nigerians, South Africa remains an attractive destination because of its developed commercial centres, tourism industry, entertainment sector and established Nigerian community. Cities such as Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban continue to attract visitors, entrepreneurs, professionals and families from Nigeria.
Business is another important factor behind continued movement between the two countries. Nigeria and South Africa are two of Africa’s largest economies, and their business communities have maintained extensive commercial relationships. In April 2026, South African officials and business representatives in Nigeria continued discussions aimed at strengthening bilateral economic cooperation and intra-African trade.
Moroe has also previously argued that perceptions surrounding Nigerians and South Africans can sometimes be amplified by traditional and social media. In 2025, he said most Nigerian visa applications were approved and maintained that visa refusals were generally linked to immigration requirements rather than xenophobia.
This does not mean concerns about the safety of Nigerians in South Africa have disappeared. The Nigerian government has expressed serious concern over reported attacks on its citizens and their businesses, while South African authorities have condemned xenophobic violence and called for law enforcement action against those responsible.
The contrast between online tensions and continued travel illustrates the complexity of Nigeria-South Africa relations. Public criticism and diplomatic disagreements can exist alongside strong family ties, commercial interests and regular movement between the two countries.
For Nigerians who continue to visit South Africa, the reasons can be practical as much as personal. Some travel to see relatives and friends, others pursue business opportunities, while tourists are drawn by the country’s attractions, shopping, entertainment and hospitality industries.
As both countries work to manage tensions and strengthen their longstanding relationship, the continued movement of people between Nigeria and South Africa remains an important part of their bilateral ties.
Source: Thepressradio.com
