The Consul-General of South Africa in Nigeria, Prof. Bobby Moroe, has assured Nigerians that South Africa remains open for business, tourism and other legitimate visits, revealing that visa applications from Nigerians have nearly doubled in recent months despite lingering concerns over xenophobic attacks. The envoy dismissed claims that South African diplomatic missions in Nigeria had stopped issuing visas, describing such reports as false.

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Speaking during an interview on Nigeria Info FM on Sunday, Moroe said interest in travelling to South Africa remains strong among Nigerians, even amid reports of sporadic attacks on African migrants in parts of Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal and the Western Cape.

The attacks, often linked to local grievances over unemployment and crime, have previously resulted in the looting of foreign-owned businesses, assaults and displacement of migrants. The concerns recently prompted the Nigerian government to facilitate the repatriation of more than 1,400 Nigerians who felt unsafe or stranded in South Africa.

The South African envoy urged prospective visitors to obtain valid visas before travelling, comply with immigration regulations and familiarise themselves with the country’s laws and emergency services. He advised Nigerians to know their legal rights, identify nearby police stations and conduct themselves as good ambassadors of Nigeria while abroad.

Moroe expressed confidence that bilateral relations between Nigeria and South Africa would continue to strengthen, with increasing exchanges in tourism, business and other areas of cooperation.