Visa application from Nigerians to S’Africa double despite xenophobic attacks—Envoy

South Africa's Consul-General in Nigeria, Professor Bobby Moroe, has reported a significant increase in visa applications from Nigerians, with numbers nearly doubling in recent months. This surge in interest persists despite persistent reports of xenophobic attacks in South Africa that have targeted Nigerians and other African migrants.

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I just want to give reassurance that South Africa is open for business, South Africa is open for tourism, and South Africa is open for any other form of visit.

Moroe emphasized that South Africa remains a safe destination for tourism, business, and other forms of travel. He dismissed online rumors that South African missions in Nigeria had stopped issuing visas, calling them untrue. "I just want to give reassurance that South Africa is open for business, South Africa is open for tourism, and South Africa is open for any other form of visit," he stated.

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But I can assure you and the listeners, that it is safe to travel to South Africa. I indicated during the beginning of the show that the number of visa applications have almost doubled.

The diplomat urged prospective travelers to obtain necessary visas before departure and to respect South Africa's immigration laws. He also advised Nigerians to familiarize themselves with South African laws, understand their rights, and know the locations of law enforcement agencies for emergencies. Moroe expressed confidence in the continued growth of bilateral visits, highlighting South Africa's value for its relationship with Nigeria.

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It is everybody’s responsibility to ensure that before you travel, you ensure that you have your visa, you comply with the immigration laws of the country, you become a good ambassador of your country.