South Africa dismisses xenophobia claims in Nigerian visa rejections
By Kunle Sanni –
South Africa’s Consul-General in Lagos, Bobby Moroe, has dismissed claims that visa rejections for Nigerians are driven by xenophobia. He emphasized that most applications are approved, and denials typically result from incomplete documentation.
Moroe spoke on Wednesday at the 25th anniversary of the Nigeria–South Africa Chamber of Commerce (NSACC) in Lagos, where a new NSACC logo was unveiled. He said misconceptions on both sides have fueled misunderstandings between citizens of the two countries.
“One of the greatest pandemics facing South Africans and Nigerians is perception,” Moroe said. “Over time, these perceptions become a lived experience, even when they do not reflect reality.”
He noted that traditional and social media have contributed to these misconceptions but highlighted initiatives like the MultiChoice-sponsored Media Innovation Programme, which immerses Nigerian journalists in South Africa, as efforts to improve mutual understanding.
On visa matters, Moroe stressed that South Africa does not deliberately restrict Nigerians’ entry. “We issue more visas than we reject. When we decline an application, it is because of missing documents, lack of introduction letters, or required health certifications. It is not about xenophobia.”
He added that the Lagos consulate processes about 100 to 130 visa applications daily, but staffing limitations and peak travel periods can sometimes cause delays.
Addressing broader concerns about xenophobia, Moroe described it as a misinterpreted issue linked to South Africa’s economic challenges rather than intentional discrimination against Nigerians.
He further noted that Nigerians are generally well integrated in South Africa, contributing as professionals, entrepreneurs, and family members, highlighting the strong bilateral ties between the two nations.
