Amanze Chinonye
Demand for South African visas from Nigerians has nearly doubled despite concerns over attacks on foreign nationals, South Africa’s Consul-General in Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, said, highlighting continued travel and business ties between the two countries, Prime Business Africa reports.
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Moroe said the increase was driven by demand for tourism, business and other travel, adding that South Africa remained open to Nigerian visitors who meet its immigration requirements.
“South Africa is open for business, South Africa is open for tourism,” Moroe said in an interview with Nigeria Info FM.
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His comments come amid renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks and intimidation of African migrants in parts of South Africa, an issue that has periodically strained relations between Pretoria and other African countries, including Nigeria.
Moroe rejected reports that South African authorities had stopped issuing visas to Nigerians, saying eligible applicants continued to receive them.
According to Moroe, Nigeria has a sizeable community in South Africa, with its citizens engaged in retail, commerce, hospitality, services and skilled professions. Movement between the two countries is also supported by longstanding trade, investment and diplomatic ties.
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South African authorities have previously said law enforcement agencies must protect foreign nationals and prosecute those responsible for attacks.
Moroe said the continued demand for visas showed that concerns over xenophobia had not eliminated Nigerian interest in South Africa as a destination for tourism, commerce and other activities.
The Consul-General did not provide figures for the number of applications received or specify the period over which applications had nearly doubled. The increase is therefore based on his assessment rather than publicly released official visa statistics.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
