By Enyichukwu Enemanna
South African President, Cyril Ramaphosa, is currently under pressure to quit office, arising from backlash in his country over the announcement of a simplified visa process for Nigerian nationals.
The move, aimed at boosting economic and tourism activities, was announced during the 11th Session of the South Africa-Nigeria Bi-National Commission in Cape Town on December 3.
This, however, did not go down well with the citizens of the Southern African country, who have taken to social media to call for the reversal of the policy.
Critics accuse the government of prioritising foreign relations over domestic concerns in a nation where xenophobic attacks against foreign nationals are regular.
The outcry has included an open letter to the South African leader, condemning the policy.
Responding to the backlash, the presidency clarified that the initiative was part of broader efforts to modernise and streamline visa application processes globally.
“Our efforts to create a favourable environment include introducing a simplified visa process for Nigerian business people. Those who qualify can be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa,” Ramaphosa explained. He added that Nigerian nationals would no longer need to produce a passport to apply for a visa.
Speaking on Tuesday at the opening of the 11th session of the Nigeria-South Africa Bi-National Commission (BNC) in Cape Town, South Africa, Ramaphosa said, “Our efforts to create a favourable environment include our simplified visa process for Nigerian business people to travel to South Africa. Qualifying Nigerian business people can be granted a five-year multiple-entry visa.”
Both countries have had strained relations in the past following attacks and looting of business interests belonging to Nigerians in South Africa.
They accuse Nigerians of taking over their jobs, an allegation Nigerians have denied.
