Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Air Peace, Allen Onyema, has urged Nigerians to halt investments in South Africa and consider an economic boycott in response to renewed xenophobic attacks reportedly targeting Nigerians living in the country.
Speaking against the recurring incidents, Onyema condemned the attacks and argued that stronger economic measures may be necessary to push for improved protection of Nigerians abroad.
According to him, continued violence, harassment and destruction of businesses linked to Nigerians should not be met with silence while economic ties remain unchanged.
“We cannot continue to watch our people being killed, harassed and having their businesses destroyed while we keep investing billions in a country that does not protect us,” Onyema said.
He maintained that if Nigerians and their investments are not adequately protected, citizens and businesses should reconsider expanding economic interests in South Africa.
Onyema, whose airline received national attention in 2019 after evacuating Nigerians free of charge during a previous wave of xenophobic violence, said economic influence remains one of the strongest tools available to citizens.
He called on business owners to suspend expansion plans into South Africa and encouraged consumers to review their patronage of South African-owned brands operating in Nigeria.
“Nigeria is a major market. South African companies earn significant profits here. If patronage declines, there may be stronger incentives for authorities to address concerns affecting foreigners, especially Nigerians,” he added.
The Air Peace boss also appealed to the Federal Government to strengthen diplomatic engagement with South African authorities and place greater priority on the safety and welfare of Nigerians in the diaspora.
According to him, diplomacy should be accompanied by practical measures that demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to protecting its citizens abroad.
Xenophobic tensions in South Africa have resurfaced periodically over the years, with several incidents involving attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, resulting in diplomatic concern and public outcry.
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